Lester Eljaiek, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Professional Overview
Lester Eljaiek is an accomplished Chief Financial Officer with over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. He is a strategic financial leader known for driving operational excellence, implementing cost-saving initiatives, and optimizing financial performance to support organizational growth and profitability.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer at HCA Healthcare, Lester is responsible for overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, cash management, and financial reporting. He plays a crucial role in aligning financial strategies with the company's overall business objectives, enabling HCA Healthcare to maintain its position as a leading provider of healthcare services.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Lester served as the Chief Financial Officer at Reid Health and Parrish Medical Center, where he spearheaded initiatives to improve financial processes, enhance operational efficiencies, and strengthen the organizations' financial positions. He also held various finance leadership roles at Broward Health, Lifespan, and Sentara Healthcare, demonstrating his ability to thrive in complex, fast-paced healthcare environments.
Early in his career, Lester gained valuable experience as an accountant at KPMG and Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs, where he honed his technical skills and developed a deep understanding of the financial landscape.
Academic Background
Lester holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Miami. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has continued to expand his professional knowledge through various industry-specific certifications and training programs.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial planning and analysis
- Budget development and management
- Cash flow optimization and working capital management
- Financial reporting and regulatory compliance
- Merger and acquisition integration
- Process improvement and cost-saving initiatives
- Strategic decision-making and business partnering
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Lester has demonstrated a track record of success in improving financial performance, driving operational efficiency, and enhancing the overall financial health of the healthcare organizations he has served. His strategic vision and data-driven approach have enabled him to implement innovative solutions that have positively impacted patient care and organizational profitability.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strong financial acumen, and proven leadership abilities, Lester Eljaiek is a valuable asset to HCA Healthcare. As the Chief Financial Officer, he continues to play a pivotal role in the company's ongoing success and growth, contributing to its mission of delivering high-quality, cost-effective healthcare services to the communities it serves.