New York City: A hub of finance and healthcare innovation.
A recent feature in Crain’s highlights key leaders in finance who are innovating the healthcare and financial landscapes of New York City. These individuals are noted for their transformative contributions, spearheading initiatives that address critical societal challenges and enhance organizational effectiveness. From optimizing financial operations to advancing nonprofit goals, their pioneering efforts are paving the way for a better future in both sectors.
New York City – A recent feature in Crain’s highlights notable leaders in the finance sector instrumental in reshaping New York’s healthcare and financial landscapes. These leaders are recognized for their innovative strategies, exceptional management skills, and impactful community contributions that are transforming their respective organizations and addressing pressing societal challenges.
Kathleen Darmstadt plays a critical role in managing financial operations for nursing, food service, building maintenance, and security. Overseeing a budget of $120 million and leading a team of 34 professionals, Darmstadt has been pivotal in ensuring the smooth transition of Parker’s financial software package over the past three years. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she dedicates her time to volunteering at North Shore Animal League and actively participates in the Healthcare Financial Management Association and the Fiscal Officers Group of Long Island Developmental Disabilities Service Office.
As the finance lead at Rethink Food, Christopher Hollinger oversees finance, compliance, accounting, information technology, and human resources. His responsibilities include managing budgets and investments, leading annual audits, and ensuring adherence to GAAP and regulatory standards. Hollinger significantly impacted the organization by securing its first multi-million dollar contract with the City of New York. He also developed financial processes and data dashboards aimed at tracking progress against food insecurity and waste. He is a member of the Argyle Executive Forum finance advisory board, contributing his insights on financial trends and practices in the nonprofit sector.
William O’Brien provides financing and consulting expertise to Federally Qualified Health Centers and behavioral health organizations. O’Brien leads a team of 12 professionals tasked with structuring loans, tax credit deals, and providing technical assistance. His endeavors have led to investments in critical projects addressing issues such as HIV/AIDS, infant mortality, and substance use disorders. O’Brien also chairs the steering committee for the Lenders Coalition of Community Health Centers and participates on the new markets advisory committee for Blue Hub Capital, influencing funding strategies within the community health sector.
At Siebert Williams Shank, William C. Thompson has played a vital role in establishing the firm as a top municipal bond underwriter. He has significantly expanded the firm’s corporate client list, which now includes over 80 Fortune 100 companies. In 2024, Thompson drove 57 combined senior-managed transactions, contributing to the firm’s competitiveness and growth. Since 2019, under his leadership, the firm’s employee headcount has increased by 13%, signaling robust growth in the firm’s operations. Thompson also serves as the chair of the board of trustees for the City University of New York, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering educational advancement.
Douglas Meyer leads Valley Bank’s growth strategy with a dedicated team of 25 relationship bankers. He has successfully positioned the bank to undertake its first significant syndicated facility in the commercial and industrial sector. Meyer’s collaborative efforts with bankers and credit professionals have been crucial in ensuring the bank’s success within competitive markets. In addition to his role at Valley Bank, he serves as the founding member and board chair of The Water Collective, an organization focused on providing clean water solutions to villages in Cameroon.
Andrew Jamison, the founder of Extend, is at the forefront of innovation in payment solutions, collaborating closely with bank partners. Under his leadership, he has raised over $50 million in funding and manages a dynamic team. Jamison’s advancements in business payments, including the implementation of virtual cards and modern expense workflows, have transformed how thousands of businesses manage spending. His insights into financial innovation are shared widely through platforms such as Forbes and PaymentsJournal, fostering greater awareness and understanding of financial technologies.
These leaders exemplify the commitment to innovation and community service that is crucial in today’s financial and healthcare sectors, demonstrating how effective management and visionary strategies can create significant positive change in their fields.
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