Leading with purpose: Matthew A. Zuino, MSIS, FACHE, begins his first week as president and CEO of Baptist Health

Effective January 17, 2026, Matthew A. Zuino, MSIS, FACHE, assumed the role of president and CEO of Baptist Health of Northeast Florida, leading the region’s only locally headquartered and governed, faith-based, nonprofit health system. With extensive experience in health care and organizational expertise, Zuino is well-positioned to lead Baptist Health into its next chapter, balancing continuity with innovation.

“It is a privilege to serve as Baptist Health’s president and CEO,” said Zuino. “Every day, our team members, physicians and advanced practice providers demonstrate the excellence and compassion that make our organization strong. Together, we work to ensure every person has access to the care they need, promote lifelong well-being and make a tangible difference in our community. As we look to the future, I’m inspired by the possibility to strengthen our impact and continue advancing care for generations to come.”

Zuino joined Baptist Health in 2017 as president of physician integration and then was appointed chief operating officer of the health system in 2020. As COO, Zuino oversaw operations across hospitals, physician practices and ambulatory services, driving measurable gains in quality, access and financial sustainability. Prior to joining Baptist Health, Zuino spent 17 years at Virtua Health in New Jersey, where he served as senior vice president of hospital services and COO of Virtua Medical Group.

He earned a Master of Science in Information Systems from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Widener University. A Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Zuino also serves on the Board of Directors of United Way of Northeast Florida, where he will soon become Vice Chair.

The appointment to president and CEO was originally announced in November 2025. At that time, Deborah Pass Durham, Chair of the Baptist Health Board of Directors, shared: “Matt is a visionary leader with a proven track record of driving strategic results and operational excellence while consistently prioritizing people and community. The Board is extremely confident Matt will lead Baptist Health into the future with clarity, purpose and passion.”