Paul Gaden Appointed CEO of Memorial Regional Hospital

Memorial Healthcare System has appointed Paul Gaden, MBA, a nationally respected healthcare executive, as the new Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Regional Hospital, effective July 21, 2025. Gaden joins Memorial with more than 25 years of healthcare experience, including 15 years as a senior executive leading complex, multi-hospital systems across the country.

Most recently, he served as Regional President for Sentara Health in Virginia, overseeing four hospitals, five freestanding centers, and systemwide post-acute services and pharmacy operations. Under his leadership, the region generated $1.47 billion in net operating revenue while advancing major growth, quality and access initiatives.

“We are excited to welcome Paul to Memorial,” said Shane Strum, Interim President and CEO of Memorial Healthcare System. “He’s a thoughtful, strategic leader with a history of driving meaningful results, both in terms of quality and innovation. His experience and vision will be instrumental as we prepare for the largest expansion in Memorial Regional Hospital’s history.”

That expansion, a $670 million surgical and patient bed tower project announced in June, is a transformational investment in South Florida’s healthcare future, significantly expanding the hospital’s capabilities to meet the region’s growing demand.

“This is a pivotal and exciting moment for Memorial Regional Hospital,” said Paul Gaden. “This expansion represents far more than new construction; it’s an opportunity to reimagine how we deliver care, improve access, and better serve our South Florida community. I’m honored to join this outstanding team and help lead the organization through this next era of growth and innovation.”

Earlier in his career, Gaden held executive roles at Bon Secours Mercy Health, Providence St. Joseph Health, and CHRISTUS Health, where he spearheaded major service line expansions, financial turnarounds, and quality improvement initiatives. His foundation in healthcare finance, combined with a deep understanding of hospital operations, has made him a trusted leader in both strategic planning and execution.

Gaden holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Business Administration from The College of William & Mary. He and his wife, Tina, have been married for 30 years and have two adult daughters. They are relocating to South Florida and look forward to becoming active members of the community.