HCA Florida JFK Hospital welcomes four new trustees to Board of Trustees
HCA Florida JFK Hospital and HCA Florida JFK North Hospital today announced the appointment of four new members to the hospitals’ shared Board of Trustees. The Board provides governance and strategic guidance in support of both facilities and plays a critical role in advancing high-quality, patient-centered care across Palm Beach County.
“At the heart of every great organization is strong, thoughtful governance,” said Ken West, CEO of HCA Florida JFK Hospital.” An engaged and mission-driven board helps set direction, reinforces accountability, and ensures our mission and values remain front and center. We are proud to welcome these accomplished leaders and the experience they bring to our shared Board of Trustees.”
The four new trustees bring diverse expertise across emergency services, public sector leadership, organizational strategy, patient experience, and disciplined operational growth — strengths that will support both hospitals as they continue to grow and evolve to meet community needs.
“The shared Board of Trustees provides valuable alignment and leadership for both HCA Florida JFK Hospital and HCA Florida JFK North Hospital,” said Ashley Vertuno, CEO of HCA Florida JFK North Hospital. “These new trustees bring a depth of perspective and leadership that will strengthen governance and support our continued focus on quality, safety, and an exceptional patient experience.”
New Board of Trustees Members
Phillip Olavarria is the division chief of medical services with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, overseeing countywide EMS operations and collaborating closely with hospital partners to improve patient outcomes. With 25 years of public safety and military service, Olavarria brings strong expertise in emergency preparedness, quality, and patient safety.
Allan Kaulbach, mayor of the City of Atlantis, brings civic leadership and a career focused on organizational change and public sector strategy. A retired partner at Oliver Wyman, he offers deep experience in governance and guiding complex organizations through growth and transformation.
Jake Poore is president and chief experience officer of Integrated Loyalty Systems, Inc., bringing more than 25 years of experience helping organizations build strong cultures and elevate customer and patient experience. His nearly 18 years with the Disney organization add deep expertise in leadership development and service excellence.
Chris Gannon is co-founder and chief executive officer of Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen, a second-generation hospitality leader with experience scaling multi-unit operations. He brings valuable insight in governance, performance excellence, and disciplined growth.
In addition, the hospitals announced board leadership appointments:
- Dr. Sam Lederman has been named chairman of the board.
- Marcella Rutherford, a longtime community member who has served on the Board since 2018, has been named vice chair.
Together, Dr. Lederman and Rutherford bring deep experience, institutional knowledge, and a shared commitment to guiding both hospitals forward.
“We are grateful to our Board of Trustees for their service and stewardship,” West added. “This leadership team reflects the strength of our community, and we look forward to the meaningful impact they will have as we continue advancing our mission.”