Kelley Skoloda Named Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Independence Health System

Butler, PA, Jan. 8, 2025 … Independence Health System is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelley Skoloda as the new Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. Skoloda brings a wealth of experience in strategic marketing, brand development, and communications, making her an integral part of the system’s leadership team as it continues to enhance healthcare delivery across Western Pennsylvania.

Skoloda succeeds Tom Chakurda, who is retiring after serving as the CMCO for Independence Health System for the past six years, during which he successfully guided the system through multiple growth phases, strategic mergers, and the rebranding of the organization to its current identity. In her new role, Skoloda will oversee all marketing, branding, and communication efforts.

"We are thrilled to welcome Kelley to Independence Health System,” said Ken DeFurio, President and CEO of Independence Health System. "Her deep expertise in marketing and communications, combined with her innovative approach, will help us further our mission to provide expert care in the communities we serve. We also want to extend our deepest thanks to Tom Chakurda for establishing Independence Health System’s strong brand in the region.”

Kelley brings extensive experience in healthcare marketing, brand strategy, and organizational leadership, previously serving as a partner/director of global brand marketing for global PR firm, Ketchum, and, most recently, as founder and CEO of her own company, KS Consulting & Capital, now led by her son, Jake Skoloda. Her expertise lies in creating innovative marketing campaigns, strengthening community engagement, and positioning organizations as trusted leaders in their industries.

A native of western Pennsylvania, Kelley is a graduate of Seton Hill University and the University of Pittsburgh’s Katz Graduate School of Business. She served on numerous boards of directors, wrote two books, has spoken at national and internation events, was named one of the most influential women in business in Pittsburgh, and has taught at the college level.

"I am honored to join Independence Health System during such a pivotal time," said Skoloda. "I look forward to collaborating with the talented team to amplify our message, advance our mission of expert care, here, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve."

Skoloda’s appointment aligns with Independence Health System’s commitment to investing in top-tier talent to support its growth and strategic priorities. With a background that blends creativity and data-driven decision-making, she is poised to lead the organization’s marketing and communications efforts into a dynamic and promising future.

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Nationally recognized for quality care, Independence Health System comprises Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe, and Westmoreland Hospitals with a combined bed count of 925. With more than 1,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and 7,300 employees, the System is the third largest in western Pennsylvania serving a population base of 750,000 in a footprint spanning more than 10 counties.

The System includes tertiary programs rated among America’s best for cardiac care and surgery, earning accolades from a number of prestigious outlets and organizations. Locally owned and locally controlled, Independence Health System offers its patients low-cost, high-quality care across the care spectrum in such specialties as cardiology, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, women’s health and obstetrics, emergency medicine, behavioral health, and primary care. Its network of outpatient centers sees more than 1.2 million visits annually. The homecare division further supports patients at all stages of life with home health and hospice services. Learn more at www.independence.health