What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Ambulatory Officer position at Mackinac Straits Health System?
Mackinac Straits Health System is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and innovative Chief Ambulatory Officer (CAO) to provide strategic and operational leadership for its ambulatory services within a rural critical access hospital and designated Rural Health Clinics (RHCs).
This is a highly visible executive leadership opportunity for a leader who understands the unique operational, regulatory, financial, workforce, and clinical complexities of rural healthcare. The CAO will be instrumental in strengthening ambulatory operations, supporting providers, advancing value-based care, and developing a sustainable workforce strategy that meets the evolving needs of the organization and the communities it serves.
The ideal candidate will bring 5–7 years or more of progressive ambulatory leadership experience, along with demonstrated expertise in:
- ACO and value-based care, including population health, quality performance, care coordination, and financial sustainability.
- Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) models and team-based care.
- Rural Health Clinic (RHC) regulatory and operational requirements, including compliance and reimbursement considerations.
- Provider engagement and operational support, with a demonstrated ability to build trust and create a culture in which physicians and advanced practice providers can thrive.
- Workforce recruitment, retention, and pipeline development, including innovative strategies and partnerships to build the next generation of rural healthcare professionals.
- Access, capacity, and workflow optimization, with the ability to assess current-state operations and implement practical improvements that enhance both the provider and patient experience.
The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker and hands-on operational leader who can translate organizational goals into effective ambulatory practice. This individual will work closely with providers, practice leaders, hospital leadership, and community partners to identify barriers, develop solutions, and ensure providers have the resources, infrastructure, and operational support necessary to deliver exceptional care.
A BSN is required, along with an advanced degree in healthcare administration, nursing, business, public health, or a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of progressive leadership experience and education may be considered.
Mackinac Straits Health System is seeking a leader who is relationship-driven, solutions-oriented, and deeply committed to rural healthcare—someone who can strengthen today's ambulatory operations while creating innovative strategies for the workforce and care delivery models of tomorrow.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person