Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Websites
Accomplishments
Community Service
LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY
Timeline
Generic

Kara Otis

Sherwood

Summary

Purpose-driven healthcare executive with a decade of success leading strategic engagement and program performance initiatives for complex, multi-entity networks. Known for transparent communication, cross-functional collaboration, and cultivating high-performing, mission-aligned teams. Passionate about creating long-term value through operational excellence, clinical integration, and innovation. Committed to empowering individuals to grow in their careers while collectively driving total performance improvement in alignment with Vizient and Captis goals. Skilled program director adept at managing all facets of program operations, including administration and outreach. Well-versed in multitasking to achieve challenging goals. Prepared to leverage several years' experience the field to take on challenging role. Proficient Program Director specializing in strategic planning, operational leadership, and improvements for projects. Bringing many years of experience in industry to new position with long-term potential for growth and advancement. Results-driven Program Director with a proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. Excel at strategic planning, team leadership, and operational management to drive program success. Skilled in conflict resolution, effective communication, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring seamless collaboration across departments. Thrive in fast-paced environments by prioritizing tasks and leveraging problem-solving abilities to overcome challenges.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Sourcing and Program Director

Vizient / Captis
04.2015 - Current
  • - Provided strategic leadership for a 93-member IDN across 24 states.
  • - Facilitated monthly Operations Committee meetings.
  • - Collaborated with Mayo Clinic and internal stakeholders.
  • - Partnered with cross-functional teams.

Director of Value Analysis

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
05.2011 - 04.2015
  • - Founded and led the health system’s first Value Analysis Program.
  • - Achieved over $22M in cost reduction.
  • - Mentored and developed analysts.

Clinical Service Manager, Progressive Care Unit

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
08.2007 - 05.2011
  • - Led 65 staff in a 30-bed ICU step-down unit.
  • - Managed team performance and operations.

ICU Liaison & Charge Nurse, Medical/Surgical ICU

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
01.2000 - 01.2007
  • - Oversaw daily ICU operations and inter-unit coordination.
  • - Managed 15+ staff and supported critical care decisions.

Education

MBA - Healthcare Management

University of Phoenix
12.2007

BSN -

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
05.2000

Skills

  • Strategic Client Engagement & Communication
  • Program Leadership & Executive Reporting
  • Supply Chain & Clinical Value Analysis
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration & Governance
  • Contracting, Compliance & Vendor Negotiation
  • Standardization & Process Optimization
  • Strategic leadership
  • Project management
  • Value analysis

Certification

Licensure: RN (Active)

Accomplishments

  • - Delivered $175M+ in savings across a 93-member Captis network.
  • - Collaborated with Mayo Clinic and Vizient Spend Management leadership.

Community Service

  • Arkansas Department of Child and Family Services, Foster Parent
  • North Little Rock School District, Volunteer School Nurse
  • Parkhill Christian Church, Children’s Ministry Director
  • Arkansas Dolphins Swim Team, Booster Member
  • American Diabetes Association
  • American Nurses Association

LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY

I lead with authenticity, transparency, and a deep respect for team development. I believe in creating environments where individuals feel supported, valued, and connected to a greater mission. My goal is to help every team member grow into their full potential while maintaining alignment with Vizient and Captis' shared vision of innovation, value, and total performance improvement.

Timeline

Sourcing and Program Director

Vizient / Captis
04.2015 - Current

Director of Value Analysis

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
05.2011 - 04.2015

Clinical Service Manager, Progressive Care Unit

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
08.2007 - 05.2011

ICU Liaison & Charge Nurse, Medical/Surgical ICU

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
01.2000 - 01.2007

MBA - Healthcare Management

University of Phoenix

BSN -

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Kara Otis