The Gammill Group has been retained by Gundersen Lutheran Health System, a not-for-profit, comprehensive healthcare network in La Crosse, WI to fill the position of Executive Director of Finance. 

Under the supervision of the Chief Financial Officer, the Executive Director of Finance will lead the finance functions, playing an active role in the strategic planning processes, interfacing and working in collaboration with the Senior Leadership team and with all departments and functions which require services of the finance department.  This person will be required to have a good technical understanding of forecasting, reimbursement and contracting along with having the proven ability to build collaborative teams across an organization. 

Required: GAAP, computerized accounting systems, excellent oral and written communications skills including the ability to make effective presentations to large and small audiences, knowledge of the unique business issues within the healthcare industry including the regulatory environment, reimbursement methods, tax exempt organization requirements, etc.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will have vision, excitement, passion, and patience.  Due to the level of this position, the Executive Director will have face-to-face interaction with multiple divisions of the hospital; therefore, excellent communication, time management, political savviness, organization, and interpersonal skills are necessary to succeed.  Efficiency and the ability to prioritize goals and objectives are essential. 

The growth of the system along with healthcare reform has required heightened analysis, budget, and strategic planning processes; consequently, it is imperative the candidate have previous finance, budgeting, or planning experience in a integrated health system.  Candidates with experience in a multi-system environment will be ideal – however, a candidate with experience in a large standalone hospital could also be successful in this role. 

  Keys to Success

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Good technical understanding of forecasting, reimbursement, and payer contracting
• Proven ability to build a strong team and lead in significant times of change
• Proven ability to modify systems and processes and improve efficiency and eliminate waste
• Creative and willing to push the status quo
• Experience with similar model of healthcare delivery – integrated, service lines, and employed physicians

 Education and Experience

A Master’s degree in Accounting/Finance, Health Administration or Business Administration is required along with five to seven years of progressive work experience in healthcare management. (Desired: MBA and CPA certification)