Vice President of Payer Strategies

Company: ARDENT
Location: Brentwood
Posted on: January 10, 2026

Job Description:

Ardent Health is a leading provider of healthcare in communities across the country. With a focus on consumer-friendly processes and investments in innovative services and technologies, Ardent is passionate about making healthcare better and easier to access. We are driven by our purpose of caring for people: our patients, our communities and one another. Located in Brentwood, Tennessee, Ardent has earned a reputation as one of the industry’s strongest and most innovative healthcare systems. Our facilities and clinics are consistently recognized among healthcare’s best employers. We recognize each hospital and clinic is as unique as the community it serves. We strive to maintain strong community ties through advisory boards, contributions, charitable care, education and outreach. Ardent includes: 30 hospitals 280 sites of care 4,281 beds 24,000 team members 8,200 nurses 1,800 aligned providers 5.8M annual provider encounters 421 medical residents Ardent makes considerable investments in people, technology, facilities, and communities, producing high quality care and extraordinary results. From newly constructed facilities and expanded services, to lifesaving technology and outstanding opportunities for employees, Ardent is committed to providing its hospitals and clinics the tools needed to succeed. POSITION SUMMARY: The Vice President, Payer Strategies, a highly strategic leader responsible for managing payer contracts across corporate and facility service lines. This role will advance enterprise initiatives, strengthen payer relationships, and partner with division leaders to shape strategy and drive growth. The VP will lead negotiations, develop Ardent’s network, and implement innovative pricing and healthcare reform strategies. Success requires expertise in healthcare financing, strong leadership skills, and the ability to navigate a complex, multi-facility organization. Responsibilities Oversee all commercial contracts with Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) and other payers. Lead payer negotiations and grow the managed care portfolio. Develop Clinically Integrated Networks (CIN) and support Accountable Care Organizations. Establish standardized processes for contract negotiation and compliance. Monitor legislation impacting payment initiatives and assess enterprise risks. Collaborate with corporate teams and division leaders to align goals and optimize resources. Mentor and coach division managed care leaders for high performance. Qualifications Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree 10 years of Managed Care contract negotiation Experience in a complex, mutli-facility organization Multi-state experience, preferred. Experience working with both provider and payer organizations, preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Strategic thinking, negotiation expertise, leadership, and healthcare financing knowledge. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

Keywords: ARDENT, Franklin , Vice President of Payer Strategies, Healthcare , Brentwood, Tennessee