Experienced human resources professional Manuel (Manny) Ocasio recently joined nonprofit Vitalant as executive vice president and chief people officer, leading the organization’s Human Resources function for about 4,000 staff nationwide.
“We sought a transformational leader with strong business acumen, demonstrated success in related industries, and experience leading a diverse and dispersed workforce,” said Vitalant President and CEO David R. Green. “Manny has these qualifications and more.”
Ocasio comes to Vitalant from Luminis Health, a nonprofit health system with a network of nearly 100 practice locations, 6,700 staff and 1,500 physician providers, with an impressive track record of serving its patients and communities. As the chief human resources officer, he led the organization’s efforts to reduce staff vacancies significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Demonstrating his commitment to two-way communication and supporting a productive culture, he used employee survey feedback to enhance the benefits program.
Prior to Luminis Health, Ocasio held human resources, compliance and information technology leadership roles in long-term care and acute care hospitals and health systems, most notably having led the hiring efforts leading to the opening of Holy Cross Germantown Hospital, which was the first new hospital in Maryland in 35 years.
Ocasio earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras; his MBA from The Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School; and his law degree from the University of Maryland School of Law. He is also a fellow at the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).
“People are our most valuable and important asset in delivering the Vitalant mission to the communities we serve,” said Ocasio. “I look forward to helping to enhance our employees’ experience through supporting and strengthening our culture of belonging and innovation.”