June 12, 2025 — Lee Health is pleased to announce that Chris Akeroyd has been selected to serve as the health system’s new Chief Information Officer. Akeroyd brings more than 28 years of experience in information technology (IT), digital transformation and operational excellence across the healthcare industry and beyond.
In his role, Akeroyd will lead the strategic direction, planning and operational management of Lee Health’s information systems and IT functions. His leadership will be key to advancing the health system’s digital capabilities and supporting its mission to provide high-quality, compassionate care to the Southwest Florida community.
Akeroyd most recently served as executive vice president and chief information officer for Children’s Health in Dallas, one of the largest pediatric health systems in the country. In that role, he led the technology strategy for a new $5 billion flagship pediatric campus and oversaw information services, cybersecurity, analytics, digital, telehealth, innovation and biomed. His work advanced AI implementation, smart hospital design, digital health expansion into 300+ schools and a modernized analytics model that enabled actionable data at every level of the organization.
“I am thrilled to welcome Chris Akeroyd to the leadership team,” said Ben Spence, Lee Health’s chief operating and financial officer. “His strategic vision, deep healthcare expertise, passion for innovation and proven track record of success will not only drive our digital innovation but also enhance the experiences of both patients and providers across the Southwest Florida community.”
Akeroyd also previously served as vice president and chief digital and technology officer at Children’s Health, where he established a multi-cloud technology environment and drove $40 million in savings through IT rationalization and modernization. His experience also includes leading infrastructure and security for UMC Health System in Lubbock, Texas, as well as technology leadership roles in telecommunications and mortgage lending.
Akeroyd is a certified healthcare CIO and digital health executive through the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME).
He earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science from Texas Tech University.
Akeroyd succeeds Rick Schooler, who is retiring after six years of dedicated and impactful service to Lee Health.
Akeroyd officially began his role with Lee Health in June.
To learn more, please visit www.leehealth.org.
About Lee Health
Lee Health has been a cornerstone of health care in Southwest Florida since opening its first hospital in 1916. As a non-profit, integrated health system, Lee Health is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. With a strong commitment to community health and wellness, Lee Health commits to evolving with the growing and changing needs of the region. The system offers comprehensive services through four acute care hospitals, Golisano Children’s Hospital, three skilled nursing locations, outpatient facilities, urgent care centers, and a wide network of primary care and specialty practices. Lee Health supports every step of the health journey, from preventive care to advanced treatment for every member of our community. Learn more at www.LeeHealth.org.
