‘I’m a Nurse First’: How New CEO David Zambrana Plans to Lead Miami’s Jackson Memorial

Image source: LinkedIn

When David Zambrana, PhD, DNP, MBA, RN was recently named CEO of Jackson Health System, nurses across the country saw a story of possibility unfold. His journey from bedside care to executive leadership isn’t just impressive; it’s deeply rooted in nursing values that continue to shape his vision for one of America’s largest public health systems.

Zambrana’s appointment was announced by Jackson Health System’s Public Health Trust board on January 29, 2026. He succeeds long-time CEO Carlos Migoya, who will step down on May 31, 2026.

A Nursing Career Built on Compassion and Leadership

David Zambrana’s journey in health care is rooted first in patient care. Born to Cuban immigrant parents in New Jersey and raised in Hialeah, Florida, he was introduced to the world of hospitals early, spending time waiting for his mother’s cafeteria shift and eventually volunteering there as a teenager. At 15, he started working in medical records at Hialeah Hospital, then later followed his older sister into nursing school.

Zambrana then trained as a registered nurse, initially working at Jackson Memorial Hospital. There he provided direct care in cardiac and pediatric intensive care, as well as working as a bedside nurse at Ryder Trauma Center, experiences that gave him deep insight into the realities of acute patient care.

His clinical foundation provided a springboard into leadership roles in health systems both inside and outside South Florida. After advancing into nursing administration, he served as Chief Nursing Officer at Des Peres Hospital in St. Louis and later as Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer at University of Miami Hospital.

Outgoing CEO Carlos Migoya said in Jackson’s announcement, “David Zambrana is the most prepared leader in Jackson’s 107-year history. The trust and respect our teams already feel for David make him, hands-down, the best choice for our future.” 

Deep Nursing Education and Academic Ties

Zambrana is a “Double Cane” graduate of the University of Miami, holding both a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a PhD in nursing and healthcare systems. His doctoral work has focused on nursing workload and the professional practice environment, topics that directly affect staffing, safety, and nurse retention.

He is also recognized as a distinguished alumnus of the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, where he has been highlighted as an alumnus of distinction and an example of what advanced nursing education can lead to. The school notes that some of its DNP alumni, including Zambrana, have returned to teach in the program—signaling his ongoing connection to nursing education and future nurse leaders.

“I’m a nurse by training and very proud of that,” Zambrana said, adding that when asked about his profession, “I always say ‘I’m a nurse’ first.” His nursing background informs how he approaches leadership, always with the care team and patient experience at the center.

What He Says About Being CEO

Zambrana has been open about what this appointment means to him personally and professionally. In a LinkedIn post reacting to the announcement, he wrote, “Being named Jackson Health System’s next CEO is the greatest honor of my professional life. I grew up in this organization, shaped by the people I work alongside and the experiences we’ve shared.” For many nurses at Jackson, that idea of ‘growing up’ in the organization resonates with their own careers.

He added that he pledges to move Jackson forward “together with the most exceptional team in health care,” focusing on “caring for our community today while continuing to build for the future ahead.” Jackson Health System’s official statement notes that he will formally become CEO on June 1, 2026, following Migoya’s departure on May 31.

Why His Appointment Matters for Nurses

Zambrana’s leadership is drawing praise not only because he is an experienced executive, but because he is a nurse who has never lost sight of what front-line clinicians need. In the comments on his announcement, one colleague wrote, “You are an exceptional executive with the right values—but more importantly, you are a nurse who truly understands what patients and clinicians need.” 

For bedside nurses at Jackson and beyond, Zambrana’s appointment signals that clinical experience and advanced nursing education can lead to the very top role in one of the nation’s largest public health systems. As he steps into the CEO position, Zambrana’s roots in nursing, his focus on the professional practice environment, and his stated commitment to the “most exceptional team in health care” are likely to shape how he leads and how nurses’ voices are heard across Jackson Health System.

 

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