Matthew Steinmetz

Ascension St. Vincent’s, a Catholic healthcare ministry with a mission to “go where the need is greatest and care for the most vulnerable” is one of Northeast Florida’s largest healthcare organizations. Matthew Steinmetz, Business Development Manager at Ascension St. Vincent’s, enjoys the mission-driven community impact of the health system. Matthew’s roles have allowed him to assist in developing relationships that further the reach of the organization, allowing it increased opportunities to provide quality, compassionate care throughout Northeast Florida.

Matthew’s career pathway was intentional; he approached his education from a strategic long-term perspective. At Florida State University, Matthew studied Interdisciplinary Social Sciences and earned a bachelor’s degree. He was passionate and interested in the curriculum. However, he chose this course of study as a way to continue pursuit of his education. Matthew selected the University of North Florida (UNF) for his master’s degree because, “It’s a competitive school and the dual master’s MBA and Health Administration program allowed me to complete in three years.”

While at UNF, he had the opportunity for an internship with some of the administrators at Ascension St. Vincent’s, many of whom had financial backgrounds. Matthew’s approach to finance work within the health care industry was very intentional, as this background can elevate one’s career. He said, “It’s common that the next person to take the CEO role is the CFO, as they have served in an operational role.” While interning, a position opened at Ascension St. Vincent’s as a Financial Analyst. Matthew took the role and was involved in the continued development of Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County, a 134-bed hospital which opened in 2013 and has since completed two additional facility expansions.

Matthew has taken on the role of Business Development Manager, allowing him to facilitate new and maintain strong business partnerships. “It’s about the relationships more than anything. It’s the heartwarming part of the organization. Relationships allow us to improve the quality of care rather than us working separately. These partnerships allow us to ensure that best care that can possibly be provided will be provided.”

Recently, Matthew was part of creating a new partnership between two organizations and Ascension Florida and Gulf Coast, the regional health system that includes Ascension St. Vincent’s, Ascension Sacred Heart based in Pensacola, and Ascension Providence in Mobile, Alabama that will facilitate increased services for individuals needing musculoskeletal care, particularly orthopedics. Each entity contributes resources resulting in synergy that benefits each organization and its patients. As Ascension St. Vincent’s continues to expand its footprint, it will “continue to consistently improve quality, communication, and all aspects of care,” according to Matthew.

When asked what he enjoys about his role within the business side of Healthcare, Matthew states, “Every day’s a different day. I chose this industry because healthcare is constantly evolving. Also, it seemed more recession-proof than other careers.” Matthew notes that Ascension St. Vincent’s made a point to do everything possible to assist its staff and protect their pay when the COVID-19 pandemic began. “I’m really proud to work for a company that made this kind of commitment.”

Matthew realizes the important role education has played in his career pathway and encourages others to seek out post-secondary opportunities. “Education is really important in healthcare. Many of my col- leagues are returning to school for master’s degrees to position themselves for what could be next.” He encourages individuals to take advantage of company-sponsored training programs and tuition reimbursement, as it can serve as a fantastic career laddering opportunity. “Plan for the long-term. Know your goals. Don’t worry about titles and money. People chase titles and money. Be intentional about your career.”