SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — David Flicek has been named chief operating officer (COO) for Avera Health. In addition, he will continue his duties as chief administrative officer (CAO) for Avera Medical Group.

“Avera’s health ministry has seen significant growth in recent years. Under David’s leadership, Avera has added a new specialty hospital, expanded our behavioral health services, added two family health centers with free-standing emergency departments, extended our Avera Cancer Institute into our regions and replaced several critical access hospitals for our rural communities,” said Bob Sutton, Avera president and CEO.

“This growth is only the beginning — and as it continues, the need for an executive leader for our operational areas became abundantly clear. This position will be key in helping to ensure alignment and cohesion with Avera’s overall strategy and driving operational results. David’s commitment to serving our communities is a testament to his leadership and will continue to benefit our health ministry,” Sutton said.

Flicek will lead all of Avera’s integrated operations of clinics, hospitals and long-term care centers as well as Avera@Home.

Flicek is currently president and CEO of Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center and Chief Administrative Officer for Avera Medical Group.

There will be a search opening in the near future for the leadership position at Avera McKennan.

In 2017, Flicek was named the 15th top administrator in the 110-year history of Avera McKennan, Avera’s 545-bed flagship tertiary hospital in Sioux Falls, as well as Avera McKennan sites that include the Avera on Louise Health Campus, Avera Specialty Hospital, Avera Behavioral Health Hospital, Avera Human Performance Center, sports and fitness facilities, Avera Prince of Peace Retirement Community, Avera Research and more.