As associate executive vice chancellor of shared services, Denise Palumbo drives the integration of essential ForHealth Consulting functions—including quality, finance, information technology, contracting, and project management—into a cohesive, high-performing organization. In this pivotal role, she champions collaboration and innovation to ensure these services not only support but accelerate the organization’s mission and long-term goals.
With more than 35 years of strategic and clinical healthcare leadership, Denise’s national and international work focuses on operational transformation and facility design that align physical environments with care delivery models. Her international consulting engagements have included projects in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, England, and Scotland.
An accomplished consultant and thought leader, Denise has held executive leadership roles across academic and community health systems, including Shriners Burn Hospital for Children, Massachusetts General Hospital, Lawrence General Hospital and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital. Her career reflects a sustained commitment to advancing integrated, patient-centered care within both local and academic settings.
Throughout her tenure, Denise has led the development and expansion of specialized clinical services in imaging, surgical and anesthesia, oncology, orthopedics, and cardiovascular care. Her leadership emphasizes extending complex care to community environments while ensuring effective integration with tertiary and quaternary services in academic medical centers.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Denise enjoys exploring nature by hiking, biking, kayaking and adventure trips to remote destinations.
Denise earned a bachelor of science in nursing from Northeastern University, master of science in nursing administration and community health from Salem State University, and a doctorate in nursing practice from University of New Hampshire.