Liz Daunt-Samford, CPA
VP & Chief Financial Officer, University Hospital Division
Professional Overview
Liz Daunt-Samford is an accomplished finance executive with over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry. As the VP & Chief Financial Officer of the University Hospital Division at Emory Healthcare, she oversees all financial operations, strategic planning, and business development initiatives for the system's academic medical centers and affiliated facilities.
Experience Summary
Current Role
In her current role, Liz is responsible for driving financial performance, optimizing operational efficiency, and supporting the division's growth and innovation efforts. She has implemented robust cost management strategies that have yielded significant savings, while also spearheading key initiatives to enhance revenue cycle operations and improve financial reporting. Under Liz's leadership, the University Hospital Division has maintained a strong financial position and earned recognition for its exceptional fiscal management.
Career Progression
Prior to her current position, Liz served as the VP & Chief Financial Officer at Emory Healthcare, where she played a pivotal role in integrating financial operations across the system's various facilities. She also held the role of VP/CFO for Emory Decatur, Hillandale, and LTAC, during which time she successfully led the financial integration of these entities into the larger Emory Healthcare network. Throughout her career, Liz has demonstrated a keen ability to navigate complex healthcare environments, drive operational excellence, and deliver sustainable financial results.
Academic Background
Liz holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Georgia, where she graduated summa cum laude. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has completed executive leadership programs at Harvard Business School and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial management and reporting
- Strategic planning and business development
- Revenue cycle optimization
- Cost management and operational efficiency
- Healthcare industry knowledge and regulatory compliance
- Mergers, acquisitions, and integration
Professional Impact
Under Liz's leadership, the University Hospital Division has consistently exceeded financial targets and maintained a strong credit rating. She has spearheaded the implementation of advanced data analytics and business intelligence tools, enabling the organization to make more informed, data-driven decisions. Liz's contributions to the industry have been recognized through her participation in various healthcare finance forums and her service on the board of directors for a regional hospital association.
Conclusion
With her deep expertise in healthcare finance, strategic vision, and proven track record of success, Liz Daunt-Samford is a valuable asset to Emory Healthcare and a respected leader in the industry. Her commitment to driving operational excellence and fostering financial sustainability positions the University Hospital Division for continued growth and success.
