Knute Nelson | Walker Methodist Announces Key Leadership Promotions and Appointments

Posted on June 27, 2024 by Jessica Lacher

Earlier this month, Knute Nelson | Walker Methodist, a longtime member of LeadingAge Minnesota, announced the promotion and appointment of three key leaders who hold critical roles in the organization’s continued growth and success.

Katie Perry: Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer

Katie Perry has been promoted to Executive Vice President in addition to her role as Chief Operations Officer. Perry has been with the organization for nearly two decades. In her new role, she will develop and support high-performing teams and all operations of the organization to ensure delivery on its mission. She will also oversee the execution of all sales, quality, and operating divisions, including home and community-based services, population health, rehabilitation, wellness, and senior living.

Samantha Beckman: Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing & Transformation Office

Samantha Beckman has been promoted to Chief Marketing and Transformation Officer and Senior Vice President. Beckman will be responsible for the oversight of the marketing and communications teams while also developing ways to modernize service delivery for the organization and ensure they are adapting to ever-changing consumer behaviors and technological advancements. She has been with the organization since 2016.

Jamie Loken: Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer

Jamie Loken has been hired as the Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President. Loken’s 27-year career has centered around technology and a passion for transformation and scalability. He will lead efforts to optimize and align the digital ecosystem and digital strategies and with business objectives.

Transformative Step Forward

“As our organization grows and transforms, we must prioritize delivering the best experiences for those we serve,” said Mark Anderson, President and CEO of Knute Nelson | Walker Methodist. “These three leaders will help us realize our mission to enrich, empower, and elevate people through life’s journey.”

On January 1, 2024, Knute Nelson merged with Walker Methodist, marking a transformative step forward in their shared commitment to enhancing the lives of older adults.

Along with the rest of the Executive Leadership Team, Perry, Beckman, and Loken will all serve Knute Nelson | Walker Methodist in setting the strategic priorities for the organization moving forward. Included in their responsibilities is the task of integrating the cultures, teams, and systems of the two recently merged organizations, including the development and launch of a new name, brand, and strategic plan within the next year.

“At Knute Nelson | Walker Methodist, we are building a team dedicated to transformation and excellence that’s rooted in our shared values of faith, stewardship, and servant leadership,” said Katie Perry, Executive Vice President and COO. “Along with my colleagues Sam and Jamie and the rest of the executive leadership team, I look forward to the opportunity to lead our organization forward with a goal to provide excellent care to those we serve in all the places they call home.”

A heartfelt congratulations to Katie, Sam, and Jamie on your promotions!