On March 23, Mike Zawahri, Manager of Finance, Parkview Hospital Randallia, will claim his prize after being named one of the recipients of Business Weekly’s Forty Under 40 Awards. It is much-deserved recognition for the man who’s invested so much of himself in a healthcare system he wholeheartedly believes in. Through his financial expertise and project management skills, Mike has given structure and guidance to countless processes that benefit the individuals receiving care on and living near our Randallia campus.
With a dedication to detail and welcoming demeanor, Mike Zawahri is one of the resourceful, judicious, amiable People of Parkview.
Name: Mike Zawahri
Title: Manager of Finance, Parkview Hospital Randallia
Describe your education and career journey:
- Double major in Accounting and Finance from Indiana University – Kelley School of Business, 2002
- MBA from University of St. Francis, 2014
What made you choose this profession?
I always enjoyed business classes in high school and knew immediately I wanted to go the business school route. While taking entry level accounting classes in college, I realized how much I enjoyed the challenge and wanted to pursue an accounting degree. Adding finance as a double major only required me to take 6 more classes, so why not stay in Bloomington for another semester?
What can you tell us about the Parkview Hospital Randallia renovation and your role in the project?
This is such an exciting time at Randallia! I am the project manager of this multi- year renovation plan. We are halfway through, with a final completion goal of late 2018. The exterior of the facility has changed. We’ve added all new windows in the core tower, new lighting features on the building and a new façade look. There are many changes that the interior of the building are undergoing, as well. We currently have construction occurring within our Procedural Center and it is scheduled for completion during the latter part of this year (4th quarter). We will begin renovations of a couple of acute care units this year too.
What makes Randallia such a special facility?
Randallia is nestled within the most densely populated neighborhood within Fort Wayne. It is nice to see visitors and families walking or riding their bikes to the hospital. I can’t tell you how many times I meet people who live in the ‘05 who tell me, “We are so glad the hospital is staying in the community,” and how exciting it is to see the renovation going on. There is a special attachment to this hospital and I am so thrilled to be the project manager.
What moment would you count as your greatest success to this point?
Leading and managing a multimillion dollar renovation project at Parkview Randallia with absolutely zero construction experience.
What might surprise people about your role?
In my Finance Manager role, people assume we make decisions based solely on the financial performance. While financial performance is certainly an important component, equally important are patient safety and satisfaction, along with employee injury. These make up the essential factors that allow us to provide excellent patient care every day.
What’s something you hope to accomplish in your career?
I hope to have an even greater impact within Parkview. Ultimately, my goal is to assist and help lead the organization to continue to provide excellent healthcare services to this great region.
What are some of the unique considerations that go into financial planning and management for a healthcare system?
I learned early on in healthcare finance that there are many external factors that play a role in financial performance and planning that we don’t have much control over. For example, shifts in politics, contract changes with insurance companies and payer mix all have a significant part in what we consider during budget season.
How did you feel about your recent Forty Under 40 award?
I was completely shocked and honored when I received word that I was selected for Forty Under 40. It is truly an honor to work for an amazing organization. I have received support from many mentors and colleagues throughout my career, as well as family members.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I consider myself a decent creative cook. I can open the fridge, grab leftovers, and turn them into an appealing meal. Maybe I should be on the TV show Chopped!
Do you have any hobbies or things you like to do outside of work?
Spending time with my family, barbecuing and spending time outdoors with my kids.
What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you?
Think before you speak. Wise advice for all of us to remember.
What would we find on your bucket list and what do you plan to check off next?
Another Disney trip with the family.
If you have 5 minutes to relax what do you do?
I’m a people person, so probably start up a random conversation with someone in the office. I enjoy it and find this therapeutic when days are stressful.
