Health Catalyst Names Ben Albert CEO, Accelerating Leadership Transition

HCAT
February 18, 2026

Health Catalyst named Ben Albert CEO effective February 12, 2026, accelerating the succession plan that had positioned him to take the helm after Dan Burton’s retirement. Burton will remain with the company as a strategic advisor under a transition agreement.

Albert joined Health Catalyst in January 2025 through the acquisition of Upfront Healthcare Services, where he served as CEO and co‑founder. Since assuming the role of President and Chief Operating Officer in September 2025, he has led a comprehensive restructuring of the business to align resources with the company’s highest‑return priorities and to support a technology‑first strategy.

The board has undergone a significant reshuffle: directors Dawn Smith and Duncan Gallagher stepped down effective February 17, 2026; the board will be reduced to five directors before the 2026 Annual Meeting. Justin Spencer has been elected as the new Chair, while John Kane will step down on April 1, 2026, and Matt Kolb will not seek reelection. These changes streamline governance and reinforce the company’s focus on operational efficiency.

The transition signals a renewed emphasis on cost efficiency, margin expansion, and a return to growth. Albert’s restructuring efforts since September 2025 have been aimed at improving profitability and positioning the company to capitalize on its data‑analytics platform, reinforcing the technology‑first strategy that underpins Health Catalyst’s long‑term vision.

"I am honored to lead Health Catalyst as its next CEO," Albert said. "I will continue to leverage our expertise to help clients manage costs, improve clinical quality, and strengthen consumer loyalty." Dan Burton added, "I take comfort in knowing that I pass the baton to a leader of Ben’s caliber and character." Justin Spencer noted, "Following a comprehensive search process, the board is confident Ben will provide the stability and operational depth needed to lead Health Catalyst."

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