Jackson Health System Welcomes David Zambrana as Chief Executive Officer
MIAMI, Fla. — David Zambrana has officially assumed the role of president and chief executive officer at Jackson Health System, following his mentor, Carlos A. Migoya. In his new role, Zambrana will usher in a new chapter of leadership for one of the nation’s largest public academic health systems.
A respected healthcare executive, nurse leader, and longtime member of the Jackson team, Dr. Zambrana brings decades of experience in healthcare operations, patient care, and strategic leadership to the role. His appointment marks a full-circle moment in his professional journey, which began in 1990 as a bedside nurse at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
“Jackson has always been more than a workplace to me; it is home,” Zambrana said. “I am honored to serve as CEO and to lead this extraordinary organization alongside the dedicated physicians, nurses, employees, and other care team members who make Jackson a lifeline for our community every day. Together, we will continue advancing world-class care, innovation, education, and access for the people of Miami-Dade County and beyond.”
Prior to becoming CEO of Jackson Health System, Zambrana served as the system’s president and chief operating officer and previously as CEO of Jackson Memorial Hospital. He’s played a pivotal role in strengthening operations, enhancing patient care, and supporting the system’s continued growth and transformation.
Zambrana previously served as CEO of University of Miami Health System, where he also held leadership roles as chief nursing officer and chief operating officer. Throughout his career, he has held executive leadership positions across South Florida and nationally, including at Cleveland Clinic Florida, Delray Medical Center, Hollywood Medical Center, and Des Peres Hospital in St. Louis.
Zambrana holds both a PhD in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Miami, as well as an MBA and bachelor’s degrees from the University of Phoenix. He also serves as adjunct faculty for the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, where he has contributed to research and publications focused on hospital performance, workforce engagement, patient safety, and COVID-19 response.
Zambrana has been widely recognized for his leadership and commitment to service. In 2022, he received the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies Alumnus of Distinction award. In 2024, he was honored with the “Twelve Good Men” award from Ronald McDonald House Charities for his compassion, leadership, and dedication to the South Florida community.
In addition to his role at Jackson, Zambrana serves on the board of United Way Miami and is slated to become board chair later this month. He also serves on several state and national healthcare committees focused on shaping the future of healthcare delivery.
As CEO, Zambrana will oversee Jackson’s continued mission to provide high-quality, compassionate care to all residents of Miami-Dade County while advancing medical innovation, education, and community health initiatives.
