Deborah Yount, the new Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of Sutter Health, is on a mission to address workforce burnout within the California-based health system. Since joining the executive team in January 2023, Yount has prioritized employee well-being, retention, and managerial support amid the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare workers.
Yount’s journey into human resources began after years in finance, including a role as comptroller for a staffing agency. Seeking a career change, she approached her previous CEO with a bold question: how could she provide value in a different capacity? The answer involved formalizing the company’s HR and learning and development functions. Although initially unfamiliar with the concept, Yount embraced the challenge, returning to school to earn a master’s degree in human resources and organizational development.
According to Yount, the healthcare sector is grappling with several factors contributing to employee burnout, including staffing shortages and low engagement levels. “We strive to make Sutter Health a place where employees feel like there’s purpose, and even more importantly, one where they feel valued and can make a difference every day,” she stated during an interview.
Yount noted that Sutter Health is currently experiencing an attrition rate of about 9%, significantly lower than the industry average of 15% to 16%. This consistency helps reduce burnout, as employees are less likely to absorb the workload of departing colleagues. To further combat burnout, Yount has spearheaded initiatives aimed at developing the workforce of tomorrow. In 2023, approximately 16,000 employees accessed virtual learning programs designed to enhance their skills and engagement.
As the year progresses, Yount reflects on the evolving landscape of human resources. She highlights a pressing need for simplification in employee experience. “There’s an opportunity to ensure employees have access to the right resources and technology, including artificial intelligence,” she explained. Improving these aspects can help streamline tasks and further alleviate burnout.
Yount is also committed to investing in people managers, recognizing their pivotal role in the organization. Sutter Health is launching a new certification program aimed at fostering best-in-class people leaders. This initiative will allow managers to refine their skills in areas such as financials, performance management, and effective communication.
Creating a culture of safety is another focus for Yount. She emphasizes the importance of psychological and physical safety for employees, especially given the demands of leadership and the current talent market. “When I joined Sutter, one of the areas I felt we needed to focus on is ensuring we have a very intentional development program,” she said. This program consists of eight modules designed to equip managers with essential knowledge and skills.
Yount also advocates for organizational alignment through a platform called “the power of one.” This concept allows leaders to receive consistent information, which clarifies goals and objectives across the organization. Additionally, she aims to provide access to mentorship and sponsorship programs, creating a comprehensive approach to supporting managers in their demanding roles.
For newcomers to the HR industry, Yount offers insightful advice: “Be curious. Believe in what’s possible. Be intentional about your focus and what you need to do to be successful in your role.” She stresses the importance of surrounding oneself with mentors and finding purpose in one’s work.
With a dynamic approach to human resources, Deborah Yount is steering Sutter Health toward a future where employee well-being is prioritized, and workforce burnout is effectively addressed. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, her leadership may play a crucial role in shaping a healthier work environment for all.