Leadership Transition at Acadia: New CFO to Guide $2.8 Billion Revenue Growth Plan
Acadia Healthcare Company has recently announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Heather Dixon as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Joining the organization on July 10, 2023, Dixon steps into a role that is pivotal for the company’s financial strategies aimed at enhancing its ability to deliver behavioral healthcare services to a growing number of patients. This appointment comes as David Duckworth, who held the CFO position for over a decade, transitions to an advisory role to ensure a seamless handover.
Heather Dixon brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Acadia, having previously served as the CFO at Everside Health. In her role there, she oversaw the financial operations and strategic direction of the organization, which operates 385 health centers across 34 states. This experience is critical as Acadia continues to position itself as a leader in the behavioral healthcare sector. Prior to her time at Everside, Dixon held senior leadership roles at Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., where she served as Senior Vice President and Global Controller, as well as at Aetna, a CVS Health Company, where she was the Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer.
Chris Hunter, CEO of Acadia, expressed enthusiasm about Heather Dixon’s appointment, highlighting her extensive background in finance and healthcare. “The Board and I are thrilled to welcome Heather and believe her depth of experience makes her a strong addition to the Acadia team,” said Hunter. He emphasized that Dixon’s track record of financial leadership will be vital as Acadia advances its long-term growth plan, aiming to diversify its services across its network of behavioral healthcare facilities.
In her new role, Heather Dixon aims to build upon Acadia’s strong financial foundation while addressing the increasing demand for mental health services. She expressed her commitment to supporting Acadia’s mission of helping patients and families in need. “I look forward to working with Chris and the rest of the leadership team to ensure that we remain well-positioned to create value for all our stakeholders,” said Dixon.
Acadia is currently one of the largest providers of behavioral healthcare services in the United States, operating 250 facilities with approximately 11,100 beds across 39 states and Puerto Rico. The company serves more than 75,000 patients daily, reinforcing its critical role in the healthcare ecosystem.
The leadership shift also coincides with other strategic changes within Acadia. Larry Harrod, Executive Vice President of Finance, has announced his retirement, effective June 30, 2023. Tim Sides, previously Group CFO of Acadia’s Specialty Group, will take over Harrod’s responsibilities, ensuring continuity and stability in the company’s financial operations.
The healthcare landscape is evolving, and under Dixon’s financial leadership, Acadia is poised to capitalize on growth opportunities. The company has reaffirmed its fiscal guidance for 2023 and plans to expand its bed capacity, with projections of adding 670 beds through various initiatives, including new facilities and joint ventures.
As Heather Dixon embarks on this new chapter at Acadia, both the leadership team and stakeholders are optimistic about the company’s trajectory. Under her stewardship, Acadia aims not only to sustain its growth but also to enhance its services to meet the pressing needs of the communities it serves.
Acadia Healthcare Company has recently announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Heather Dixon as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Joining the organization on July 10, 2023, Dixon steps into a role that is pivotal for the company’s financial strategies aimed at enhancing its ability to deliver behavioral healthcare services to a growing number of patients.…