CHRISTUS Health aligns executive leadership team to advance mission and strategic priorities

CHRISTUS Health has announced an executive leadership reorganization, effective Nov. 1, 2026, designed to strengthen the organization’s ability to fulfill its mission of extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, advance strategic priorities and position the ministry for continued service and growth across the United States and Latin America (LATAM).

The changes follow the announcement of the retirement of Jeff Puckett, chief operating officer, on Jan. 1, 2027, after more than 35 years of dedicated service to CHRISTUS Health.

The leadership alignment reflects the organization’s commitment to thoughtful succession planning, developing leaders from within and positioning the ministry to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

Ernie Sadau, CHRISTUS Health president and chief executive officer, emphasized the importance of the leadership changes.

“As CHRISTUS continues to grow and respond to the changing needs of our patients, families and communities, thoughtful succession planning and leadership alignment remain critical to our long-term resilience and sustainability,” said Sadau. “At the center of this new structure are three respected leaders and CEO Cabinet members who will lead this transition. Together, they have an average of 16 years of service at CHRISTUS. Their experience, leadership and commitment to our mission will help drive our strategic priorities and continue the healing ministry of Jesus Christ into the future.”

Paul Generale, president of operations, brings a deep understanding of the ministry, its people and its mission. Throughout his tenure, he has served in a variety of executive leadership roles, including driving strategic growth initiatives and guiding successful acquisitions that have strengthened and expanded the system. In this expanded role, Paul will draw on his expertise in financial management, organizational growth and systemwide operations to advance organizational priorities, strengthen alignment across the ministry and build on CHRISTUS’ commitment to delivering high-quality, mission-driven care.

Marty Margetts, senior executive vice president, chief administrative officer, will oversee enterprise strategy, communications, marketing, enterprise risk, transformation and asset management, advancing strategic alignment and organizational effectiveness across CHRISTUS.

Dr. Sam Bagchi, senior executive vice president and chief clinical officer, will lead information systems, clinical excellence, integration and innovation efforts across One CHRISTUS, promoting greater collaboration and continued progress in care delivery.

Additional CEO Cabinet Appointments

Gabriela Saenz, executive vice president and chief of staff, will oversee congregations, sponsors, governance, advocacy, compliance, philanthropy, dignity and community impact, fostering alignment with CHRISTUS’ mission, values and commitment to the communities it serves.

Kimberly King Webb, executive vice president, chief human resources officer, will lead human resources operations, talent and recruitment, change management and legal services, supporting leadership development, workforce engagement and the organizational capabilities needed to further the ministry’s mission.

Jennifer Beal, executive vice president and chief ambulatory officer, will oversee ambulatory operations, CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic practices, health plans and networks, expanding access to care and strengthening coordination across CHRISTUS’ ambulatory services.

As part of the leadership reorganization, Randy Safady, executive vice president and chief financial officer, and Steve Kazanjian, executive vice president and chief mission integration officer, will continue to serve on the CEO Cabinet in their respective roles.

Other promotions in support of the restructure include Alejandro Canavati, senior vice president and chief operating officer, LATAM; Ken Cunningham, senior vice president, chief legal officer; Maria Ganson, senior vice president, enterprise risk; Chris Glenney, senior vice president and chief operating officer, U.S.; Jaclynn Harrison, senior vice president, chief financial officer, U.S.; Ismael Ortega, senior vice president, chief financial officer, LATAM; and Lee Sonne, senior vice president, chief accounting officer.

These appointments support a coordinated transition while reinforcing CHRISTUS Health’s commitment to leadership continuity, operational excellence and its mission.

As CHRISTUS approaches the 160th anniversary of the founding call that gave rise to its ministry, the organization continues to build on its legacy while positioning itself for the future.

“This has been a landmark year for CHRISTUS, reflecting the impact of our ministry, the dedication of our people, and our unwavering commitment to our mission,” said Sadau.