AdventHealth names new leadership for West Orange, South Lake markets

AdventHealth has named a new president and CEO for AdventHealth Winter Garden, as well as a new CEO for the company’s West Orange and South Lake markets.

Kari Vargas will step into these roles after having worked for AdventHealth since 2000. Throughout her time with AdventHealth, she has served in various leadership roles, including vice president of business development at AdventHealth Orlando and vice president of business development and strategy for the Central Florida division.

Most recently, she served as vice president and chief operating officer at AdventHealth Orlando.

In her new role, AdventHealth officials said, Vargas will oversee the day-to-day operations of AdventHealth Winter Garden. Additionally, she will lead the overall expansion of the West Orange and South Lake markets with a goal of developing and executing strategies that support the total network of care. This includes building relationships with the community and its stakeholders.

“I know Kari’s experience in leading operations, strategic planning and diverse teams will serve her well as she steps into this new role,” said Terry Shaw, president/CEO for AdventHealth. “With the continued growth we’re seeing in the West Orange and South Lake markets, Kari’s leadership and expertise will further our delivery of faith-based, whole-person care across these communities.”

Vargas holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Central Florida, as well as a Master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management from Rollins College. She serves on the boards for the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and Support Our Scholars.

“Kari is a forward-thinking leader that understands how to lead provider and care teams toward operational excellence,” said Jennifer Wandersleben, AdventHealth CEO of Acute Care Services for Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Polk counties. “Kari’s passion for our mission fuels her ability to collaborate and bring teams together to continue expanding our promise of wholeness across the communities we serve.”