Health Catalyst Inc., a provider of data and analytics technology and services to the health care industry, has announced that Ben Albert, the company’s president and chief operating officer, has been named CEO and a member of the board of directors.
The appointment was effective on Feb. 12.
In connection with Albert’s appointment, Health Catalyst accelerated the timing of its previously announced succession plan for Dan Burton, who has stepped down as CEO and as a member of the board. As Burton retires from his position as CEO, Health Catalyst expects that he will continue to serve as an employee with the title of strategic advisor.
Albert is an experienced health care leader with more than 25 years of experience building and leading organizations. Upon assuming the president and COO position at Health Catalyst in September, Albert undertook a comprehensive analysis of Health Catalyst’s capabilities to focus resources on key business priorities, the company said. As part of that effort, he streamlined its leadership structure to enhance strategic focus, simplify operations and improve execution across the business.
“I am honored to lead Health Catalyst as its next CEO,” said Albert. “I have seen firsthand the mission-driven dedication that defines our organization. I look forward to building on this strong foundation by strategically centering our focus and aligning our resources with an aim to return to growth for the benefit of our clients and shareholders.”
“Following a comprehensive search process, we are confident Ben will provide the stability and operational depth needed to lead Health Catalyst in reaching our full potential,” said Justin Spencer, independent chair of the Health Catalyst board. “The board has been impressed with the focus and execution he has demonstrated as he has worked to streamline and strengthen the business. Finally, on behalf of the board, we thank Dan for his exceptional leadership throughout his tenure guiding Health Catalyst.”
“Having worked side by side with Ben these last few months, it’s become clear that he is the right person to lead Health Catalyst forward,” said Burton. “Ben’s understanding of our business, dedication to our mission and commitment to our clients are unmatched.”
Health Catalyst also announced actions to reduce the size of its board. Dawn Smith and Duncan Gallagher stepped down from the board, effective Feb. 17, and John Kane will step down on April 1. These changes are in addition to the planned departure of Matt Kolb, who previously notified the company that he will not seek reelection as a director at the 2026 annual meeting of shareholders and will complete his board service immediately prior to that meeting. As a result of these changes, the size of the board has been reduced and will ultimately be set at five directors.
Albert joined Health Catalyst in January 2025 through its acquisition of Upfront Healthcare Services Inc., where he served as CEO and co-founder. Prior to launching Upfront, he founded and led Care Team Connect, a care management platform for providers, which was later acquired by the Advisory Board Co. Albert also held various executive-level positions at PatientKeeper Inc. and Data Harbor Inc. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and an MBA from University of Illinois, Chicago.