Assistant Chief Executive Officer (ACEO) - Fort Wayne, IN

Lutheran Health Network; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Lutheran Health Network is seeking an Assistant Chief Executive Officer (ACEO) to support the CEO in guiding hospital operations, strategy, and financial sustainability. The ACEO will oversee multiple departments, drive efficiency, quality, and patient-centered service, and participate in leadership development for future advancement.

This executive role requires strong leadership, strategic acumen, and collaboration across disciplines to optimize resources and ensure regulatory compliance

Qualifications

• Master's degree in business, healthcare admin or related field.
• 4–6 years of progressive healthcare leadership experience.
• 2–4 years in operational or executive management roles.

Responsibilities

• Assist the CEO in developing and executing hospital-wide goals.
• Advise CEO on operations, strategy, finances and compliance.
• Oversee day-to-day department operations for efficiency and patient care.
• Collaborate with leadership to align priorities with mission.
• Participate in financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Lead improvement projects and service line development.
• Maintain attendance and comply with policies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Financial acumen

Regulatory knowledge

Education

MBA or related field

Healthcare Administration

Job description

Lutheran Health Network is a family of more than 6,000 employees, physicians, advanced practice providers and volunteers dedicated to providing compassionate, quality care with the best possible experience, to every patient, every time. As a taxpaying, integrated healthcare delivery system and one of the largest employers in the region, Lutheran Health Network makes a positive impact on the communities we serve.

Job Summary

The Assistant Chief Executive Officer (ACEO) is a key member of the hospital's senior leadership team and participates in operational and strategic decision-making processes that drive the hospital's mission, performance, and growth. The ACEO supports the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in overseeing hospital operations, optimizing resource utilization, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and organizational standards. This role may include leadership over ancillary departments, coordination of operational projects, and participation in initiatives to enhance quality, efficiency, and financial sustainability. The position serves as part of the leadership development program and will require future relocation to prepare for advancement within the organization.

Essential Functions

• Assists the CEO in developing, implementing, and executing hospital-wide strategic goals, initiatives, and performance objectives.
• Serves as a trusted advisor to the CEO on hospital operations, business strategy, financial performance, and compliance matters.
• Oversees day-to-day operational activities of assigned departments, ensuring efficient, high-quality, and patient-centered service delivery.
• Collaborates with executive and department leadership to align operational priorities with organizational strategy and mission.
• Participates in hospital financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation processes to support fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency.
• Reviews and analyzes financial and operational data to identify cost-saving opportunities and performance improvement initiatives.
• Partners with the CFO and finance team to monitor financial performance and optimize the hospital’s overall financial health.
• Coordinates and leads operational improvement and service line development projects as directed by the CEO.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, or related field required
• 4-6 years of progressive healthcare leadership experience required
• 2-4 years in operational or executive-level management roles with responsibility for multiple departments or service lines preferred

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and manage cross-functional relationships.
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Communicate effectively with leadership, team members, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively with others, delegate responsibilities, and independently manage tasks while meeting established deadlines.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• In depth knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory compliance (if applicable).
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency with Google and Microsoft platforms, healthcare software systems, and data analysis tools.