Baptist Health names new executive vice president and chief operating officer

Following a national search, Baptist Health has named Thomas J. Gough, MHA, as executive vice president and chief operating officer (COO), effective September 14, 2026.

As COO, Gough will serve as a key member of Baptist Health’s executive leadership team, overseeing operations across the health system. Working closely with the President and CEO Matthew A. Zuino, MSIS, FACHE, and other members of the executive leadership team, Gough will guide efforts to advance operational excellence, strengthen quality and patient safety, enhance patient experience and support sustainable growth. He will also help align clinical and operational priorities, expand access to integrated care and ensure Baptist Health continues to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

“Baptist Health is entering a new chapter of growth and innovation and Gough brings the leadership experience needed to help us build for the future,” said Zuino. “By aligning strategy, operational excellence and patient-centered care, he will play a critical role in expanding Baptist Health’s impact on the communities we serve.”

Gough succeeds Zuino in the role following Zuino’s transition from EVP and COO to President and CEO earlier this year.

Gough brings nearly four decades of executive leadership experience and spent the last decade at a nationally recognized health system in North Carolina. As EVP and COO at WakeMed Health and Hospital System in Raleigh, he led the health system through a period of significant growth and transformation. During his tenure, the organization expanded access to cancer care, opened new care locations, improved patient safety and quality outcomes, and advanced innovative approaches that enhanced both patient experience and operational performance. His leadership also contributed to national recognition for clinical excellence, workplace culture, diversity and maternity care, while supporting the system’s commitment to expanding access and serving vulnerable communities.

Prior to his tenure at WakeMed, Gough held senior leadership roles in operations and performance excellence with Care New England, Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. He earned his Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of Minnesota and his Bachelor of Science in Health Planning and Administration from Pennsylvania State University.

“Baptist Health has an outstanding reputation for clinical excellence and a deep commitment to the communities it serves,” said Gough. “What impressed me most was the incredible team who brings the mission to life every day. I’m honored to join an organization with such a strong legacy in serving Northeast Florida. I look forward to working alongside Matt, the leadership team and team members across the system as we build on that foundation and help shape an even stronger future for the patients and communities who count on Baptist Health.”

Gough has served on several health system, foundation and community boards focused on advancing health care quality, innovation and community well-being, including the North Carolina Healthcare Association Board of Trustees and the national Board Advisory Council for Premier, a technology-driven health care improvement company with more than 4,250 member hospitals. A former Academic All-American in Track and Field at Pennsylvania State University, he has remained active in athletics and youth mentorship throughout his career.