JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — Frontier Health is proud to announce the appointment of Jeffrey (Jeff) Howard, CPA, as Chief Financial Officer, effective June 30, 2025.
Howard brings more than 25 years of executive financial leadership experience in nonprofit healthcare organizations, including extensive experience in both community mental health and primary care. A seasoned strategist and servant leader, Howard is known for his ability to align financial systems with mission-driven goals while mentoring teams and guiding organizations through growth and transformation.
Throughout his career, Howard has managed financial operations for organizations with annual revenues ranging from $6 million to over $100 million. He previously served in CFO and advisory roles across North Carolina and Tennessee, including at United Health Centers, Roanoke-Chowan Community Health Centers, and Cherokee Health Systems, where he led financial strategy and operations for more than 25 years.
Among his many accomplishments, Howard played a key role in implementing telehealth programs for rural school systems, directed multi-site expansion efforts, and led initiatives for cost optimization and technology integration. In 2010, he was honored by the Tennessee Primary Care Association with the prestigious Susan P. Smith Award, recognizing his commitment to expanding access to care for underserved populations.
Howard holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Carson-Newman University, a Master of Arts in Christian Education from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant.
“Stepping back into the world of community mental health is exciting. I know it is challenging and complex, but I also know the value of the work we do. I could never handle serving on the front lines like so many of our staff do, every day, but I love knowing that my work helps them. I thrive on helping others, from behind the scenes.”
– Jeffrey Howard, CPA