Sys SVP Ancillary Services

Sys SVP Ancillary Services

CommonSpirit Health, Chicago, Illinois

The Senior Vice President of Ancillary Services is a dynamic and strategic leader responsible for the comprehensive oversight and operational excellence of critical support functions within our healthcare system. Areas of responsibility include Environmental Services, Food and Nutrition Services, Operating Room (OR) Services, and Laboratory Services. This leader will ensure high-quality, patient-centered care through the efficient and effective delivery of these essential ancillary services, aligning operations with the organization's mission, vision, and strategic goals.

Essential Key Job Responsibilities

• Provide administrative oversight, leadership, and direction to all ancillary services departments, driving consistent, high-quality service delivery.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for each ancillary service area, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and all patient safety and quality initiatives.
• Collaborate with organizational leaders to ensure the seamless integration of ancillary services within the system and overall care delivery model.
• Lead the effective communication of the availability of offered services to patients and clients.
• Lead the identification and implementation of best practices to optimize service delivery, improve workflows, maximize efficiency, and enhance overall patient outcomes and experience.
• Structure operational goals and activities to align with and support the organization's strategic objectives and Mission.
• Keep informed on industry trends, best practices, and technological advancements in ancillary services to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
• Oversee the development of and adherence to annual budgets for all functional areas of responsibility, ensuring appropriate allocation of resources and cost-effective operations.
• Oversee contract negotiations and vendor relationships for equipment, supplies, and services within the ancillary departments.
• Ensure all ancillary services operate in full compliance with relevant federal, state, and local regulations, as well as accreditation standards.
• Lead capital planning for all equipment necessary to the delivery of ancillary services, including procurement, installation, and end-of-life management.
• Oversee the management, maintenance, repair, and calibration of equipment utilized by the ancillary services teams, ensuring regulatory compliance (e.g., Joint Commission, FDA) and optimal performance.
• Direct the delivery of comprehensive cleaning, sanitation, and infection control programs across all facilities.
• Implement efficient staffing models and cost-effective EVS programs that maintain a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
• Oversee linen management and related services.
• Lead the provision of high-quality, nutritious, and appetizing food services for patients, staff, and visitors, adhering to dietary requirements, food safety standards, and patient preferences.
• Oversee menu development, procurement, inventory management, and food preparation processes.
• Manage patient satisfaction related to food services and implement improvements based on feedback.
• Lead initiatives to improve laboratory efficiency, technology adoption, and test menu expansion.
• Foster strong collaboration between the lab and clinical teams to optimize patient care.
• Establish and enforce robust mechanisms for the rapid dissemination of critical patient data and diagnostic results from ancillary services to OR teams, expediting surgical preparation and scheduling.
• Integrate ancillary services workflows and completion times into OR scheduling, reducing inefficiency and delays and improving throughput.
• Oversee prioritization and expedited processing of lab tests (e.g., blood typing, cross-matching, blood gas analysis) critical for OR patients.
• Explore, assess, and implement processes that minimize turnaround times for critical laboratory results pertinent to OR procedures.
• Identify opportunities for revenue enhancement and expense reduction while maintaining quality and safety standards.
• Build and maintain a high-performing team by attracting, developing, and retaining talent.
• Oversee performance management, staff development, and employee engagement strategies for the ancillary services teams.
• Build a culture within areas of responsibility that supports the mission and values of CommonSpirit Health.
• Serve on internal management boards and committees, as requested.

Job Requirements

• Required Education and Experience: Master's Degree in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Health, or a related field required. Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in healthcare operations, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role overseeing multiple diverse ancillary services (e.g., EVS, Food & Nutrition, Laboratory).
• Demonstrated experience with strategic planning, budget management, and operational oversight in a complex healthcare environment.
• Proven track record of driving process improvement, innovation, and achieving measurable results.
• Experience with regulatory compliance and accreditation processes (e.g., Joint Commission, CLIA, CAP, FDA).

Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Training

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and motivate diverse teams.
• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills, with the ability to manage complex budgets and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Deep understanding of healthcare regulations, patient safety standards, and quality improvement methodologies.
• Ability to think strategically, innovate, and adapt to a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.
• Proficiency in data analysis and using metrics to drive decision-making.
• Excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders