Sentara Names 17 Leaders Under New Operating Model

The health system appointed executives across clinical, finance, and operations roles in Virginia.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Norfolk, Va.-based Sentara Health has made 17 leadership appointments under its new operating model, including promotions and newly hired leaders in clinical, finance, business, operations, and human resources roles.

Why it matters

Sentara's leadership changes reflect the health system's efforts to restructure its operations and align its executive team to better serve patients and communities across Virginia. The appointments span critical functions like medical leadership, quality improvement, and business strategy, indicating Sentara's focus on enhancing its clinical, financial, and operational capabilities.

The details

The leadership changes include the promotion of Michael Hooper, MD, to executive vice president and chief clinical officer, and the hiring of Russ Coville III as vice president and chief data officer. Other notable appointments include Joseph Gressens, MD, as vice president and chief medical officer of medical specialties, and Rebecca McMahan as vice president of business operations for primary care and medical specialties in Hampton Roads.

  • Sentara announced the leadership changes on February 17, 2026.

The players

Sentara Health

A Norfolk, Va.-based health system that has made 17 leadership appointments under its new operating model.

Michael Hooper, MD

Promoted from senior vice president and chief medical and academic officer to executive vice president and chief clinical officer.

Russ Coville III

Hired as vice president and chief data officer.

Joseph Gressens, MD

Promoted from clinical chief of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine to vice president and chief medical officer of medical specialties.

Rebecca McMahan

Promoted from executive director of business operations for primary care and medical specialties in Hampton Roads, Va., to vice president of business operations for primary care and medical specialties in Hampton Roads.

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What’s next

Sentara's new leadership team will be responsible for implementing the health system's strategic initiatives and driving improvements in clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, and patient experience across its Virginia-based facilities.

The takeaway

Sentara's leadership changes reflect the health system's commitment to strengthening its clinical, financial, and operational capabilities to better serve patients and communities in Virginia. The appointments of experienced executives in key roles suggest Sentara's focus on enhancing its overall performance and competitiveness in the regional healthcare market.