Shirley Sutton brings a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to community health in her role as Chief Executive Officer of Baltimore Medical System, a position she has held since April 2015. With more than three decades of progressive leadership across both for-profit and not-for-profit healthcare sectors, Ms. Sutton is a seasoned executive known for her strategic vision, collaborative leadership style, and dedication to advancing equitable healthcare access.
Her professional background spans an impressive range of roles in some of the region’s most prominent healthcare organizations. She has held executive positions at United Healthcare, The Preferred Health Plan, MidAtlantic Medical Services, and Chesapeake Health Plan, where she led initiatives to improve patient outcomes, streamline operations, and navigate the complexities of managed care. Most recently, prior to joining Baltimore Medical System, Ms. Sutton served as Vice President of Managed Care and Government Relations for Saint Agnes Hospital, where she was instrumental in building strategic partnerships and fostering relationships with key government agencies.
Before her transition into healthcare executive leadership, Ms. Sutton began her career as a social worker, which grounded her approach to healthcare in compassion, equity, and service. Her unique blend of clinical understanding and administrative acumen continues to shape her work at Baltimore Medical System, the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Maryland.
In addition to her healthcare leadership roles, Ms. Sutton has also contributed to the economic and civic development of Baltimore as the former Executive Director of the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce. Her influence extends beyond healthcare, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the wellbeing of the broader community.
Academically, Ms. Sutton has pursued studies in finance and business administration at the College of Notre Dame and Strayer University. She is also a proud graduate of the Leadership Baltimore Training Program, which nurtures civic-minded professionals into community leaders.
Her tenure at Baltimore Medical System began with service on the organization’s Board of Trustees, where she served for four years, including time as Board President. This deep familiarity with the organization’s mission and community laid the groundwork for her success as CEO, where she continues to lead with empathy, excellence, and an unwavering focus on patient-centered care.
Under her leadership, Baltimore Medical System has strengthened its role as a trusted healthcare provider for thousands of individuals and families across the region—expanding access, innovating services, and advocating for health equity every step of the way.