Harris Regional Hospital & Swain Community Hospital Announces New CEO: Former CFO Takes the Helm

Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital, Duke LifePoint hospitals, are pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Hindman as the new Chief Executive Officer. Hindman has been serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the hospital system and will now transition into the role of CEO, effective immediately.

Hindman brings an extensive background in healthcare leadership, financial expertise, and a strong commitment to community well-being. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Accounting concentration from The Citadel: The Military College of South Carolina, and a Master of Health Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina.

With a rich history in hospital management, Hindman joined Harris Regional and Swain Community hospitals as Chief Financial Officer in November of 2019. Under his financial stewardship, the network's hospitals experienced remarkable growth and service line development. He successfully managed the financial health of Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital, achieving strong operating margins while ensuring quality patient care.

Hindman has consistently demonstrated leadership and dedication throughout his career. As Chief Financial Officer, he spearheaded collaborative initiatives with sister facilities, effectively expanding market share and enhancing patient care services. His commitment to ethics and compliance also earned him recognition as the Facility Ethics & Compliance Officer, further showcasing his unwavering dedication to ethical practices.

"We are thrilled to have Ashley take on the role of CEO. His exceptional track record and deep understanding of our organization's values make him the ideal leader to continue to make an impact on the families and patients of the communities we serve”, shared Nick Jernigan, MD, Chairman of the Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital Board of Trustees. “With his financial acumen and commitment to quality care, we are confident in his ability to drive our hospitals to new heights."

"I am honored to step into the role of CEO and continue our journey towards providing high quality, accessible healthcare to the members of WNC. I am dedicated to upholding our commitment to our patients, staff, and the broader community. By fostering collaboration and focusing on quality care, we will work together to ensure the well-being of those we serve”, said Ashley Hindman, CEO.

Hindman’s appointment comes on the heels of the publication of the 2022 community benefit report where Harris Regional and Swain Community hospitals outlined the various ways the hospital continues to invest in the health and economic vitality of WNC as part of its mission of making communities healthier.

Harris Regional and Swain Community hospital’s 2022 community benefit report highlights its continued efforts to meet the growing healthcare needs of its community through welcoming providers, expanding service lines, and continually investing in its facilities and healthcare technology.

With Hindman being named CEO, he has committed to continuing the work the facilities are doing within the WNC community and looking for additional avenues and opportunities to meet the needs of the community.