Banner Health has appointed Dr. John Rares Almasan as Senior Vice President, Chief AI, Data and Infrastructure Officer, a newly created role that brings together the organization’s artificial intelligence, data, and technology infrastructure efforts.

In the position, Dr. Almasan will oversee Banner Health’s technology foundation, data systems, and AI capabilities, working across digital, engineering, and business teams to support patient care, operational efficiency, and innovation. He will help advance the development of secure technology systems designed to support patients and care teams across the health system.

Prior to joining Banner Health, Dr. Almasan served as Senior Managing Director and Global Head of AI and Emerging Technology at TIAA. He brings more than 20 years of experience leading AI and technology initiatives across a range of industries. Earlier in his career, he led AI and cloud initiatives at McKinsey & Company and held senior technology roles at Nationwide Insurance, American Express, and Bank of America.

Dr. Almasan holds a doctorate in business administration, graduate degrees in engineering and public administration, and has completed executive education programs at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Pennsylvania. He is also a published author, patent inventor, and adjunct professor at Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University.

Reflecting on the move in a LinkedIn post, Dr. Almasan shared, “What drew me here is what Banner Health stands for — proving that exceptional care and affordability can coexist, with technology as a key part of that equation. I am energized to help build intelligent systems that give clinicians more time with patients, make care simpler to access, and keep patient safety the uncompromising priority.”