June 10, 2026- Banner Health has appointed John Rares Almasan as senior vice president and chief artificial intelligence, data and infrastructure officer, a newly created executive role that signals the health system’s growing commitment to AI-driven transformation. The appointment became effective June 1.
The organization has combined responsibility for AI, data and technology infrastructure under a single executive leader. Dr. Almasan will oversee Banner’s AI strategy, data systems and technology foundation while helping the organization use artificial intelligence to improve patient care, streamline operations and support innovation.
Dr. Almasan comes from outside healthcare. He joins Banner from TIAA, where he served as senior managing director and global head of AI and emerging technology. He previously led AI and cloud initiatives at McKinsey & Company and held technology leadership roles at Nationwide, American Express and Bank of America.
The new role comes as Banner invests more than $1 billion in AI, robotics, telemedicine and cloud-based technologies. According to the health system, AI is already being used to reduce administrative burdens, improve access to care and allow clinicians to spend more time with patients.
The creation of the position continues Banner’s recent trend of establishing executive roles focused on digital transformation. In 2024, the health system created the position of chief technology officer. By adding a dedicated AI, data and infrastructure leader, Banner is taking an additional step that few health systems have made at the executive level.