February 15, 2022
New support services leaders named
Kaiser Permanente welcomes new directors of Supply Management and Environmental Health and Safety departments.
HONOLULU — The state’s largest integrated health care organization today announced the hiring of Rob Stafford as director of Environmental Health and Safety, and Michael Ortiz as director of Supply Management, in Hawaii. Stafford and Ortiz will oversee activities under their respective roles at Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center, medical offices, and clinics across the state.
Stafford is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the organization’s regional environmental health and safety program; ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, health care accreditation standards and organizational policies; and facilitating regional activities that eliminate occupational injuries. Prior to joining Kaiser Permanente, Stafford served as the district safety officer for King County and Seattle proper, where he oversaw safety and risk strategies for 6,000 staff members. He received his bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University.
Ortiz will lead supply chain operations, including inventory management, materials procurement, contract negotiation, and accounting and maintenance functions for Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii. Ortiz has 18 years of experience in logistics operations, most recently serving as a supply chain manager at Methodist Health System in Houston. There, he managed supply operations and led strategic projects for Willowbrook Hospital. He received his bachelor’s degree in business management from Hawaii Pacific University and his MBA from Louisiana State University.
“The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed how health systems manage supply chains and ensure workplace safety,” said Sam Balukoff, vice president and hospital administrator for Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii. “Now, more than ever, we need professionals who can bring ingenuity and versatility to lead these critical functions. I’m confident that Rob and Michael have the expertise to allow our care teams to continue providing high-quality, coordinated care to our patients, and a safe workplace for our employees.”
About Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve approximately 12.5 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health.
