Jackson Health System CEO Migoya Steps Down, Successor Zambrana Appointed

Longtime CEO Carlos Migoya announces retirement, COO David Zambrana to take over leadership of Miami's public hospital system.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:23pm

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Carlos Migoya, the CEO of Jackson Health System in Miami, announced on Thursday that he will be stepping down from his role after more than a decade leading the public hospital system. The Public Health Trust board voted unanimously to appoint Jackson's current president and chief operating officer, David Zambrana, as the new CEO to succeed Migoya.

Why it matters

Migoya's departure marks a significant transition for Jackson Health System, which he is credited with stabilizing financially and guiding through the COVID-19 pandemic. Zambrana, a longtime Jackson employee who has worked his way up from a bedside nursing role, will now take over leadership of Miami-Dade's only public hospital system.

The details

Migoya will remain in his role as CEO until May 31, 2026. Zambrana, who has worked alongside Migoya for over six years, was appointed on Migoya's recommendation. Zambrana has 35 years of experience in the healthcare industry, including prior roles as CEO of University of Miami Hospital and Jackson Memorial Hospital.

  • Migoya announced his last day as CEO will be May 31, 2026.
  • The Public Health Trust board voted unanimously on Thursday to appoint Zambrana as the new CEO.

The players

Carlos Migoya

The outgoing CEO of Jackson Health System, who has led the public hospital system for over a decade.

David Zambrana

The incoming CEO of Jackson Health System, who has worked his way up from a bedside nursing role to become the president and COO, and will now succeed Migoya as the top leader.

Jackson Health System

Miami-Dade County's only public hospital system, which Migoya is credited with stabilizing financially and guiding through the COVID-19 pandemic.

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What they’re saying

“David Zambrana is the most prepared leader in Jackson's 107-year history. The trust and respect our teams already feel for David make him, hands-down, the best choice for our future.”

— Carlos Migoya, Outgoing CEO, Jackson Health System (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Zambrana will officially take over as CEO of Jackson Health System on June 1, 2026, following Migoya's retirement.

The takeaway

The transition of leadership at Jackson Health System comes at a critical time, as the public hospital system navigates the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and major budget cuts. Zambrana's long tenure and experience within the organization position him well to build on the progress made under Migoya's leadership and continue serving the healthcare needs of Miami-Dade County.