Heart Rhythm Society Names New Chief Strategy Officer

Washington, D.C., June 2, 2021 –– The Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) announces Simintha Esson as the new Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), following a thorough search. Recognized in the nonprofit space as a strong leader and cultivator of strategic partnerships, Esson brings more than a decade and a half of industry experience to HRS, including her most recent role as the Chief Development Officer for Council of Chief State School Officers.

In this role, Esson is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to support the organization's short- and long-term business development initiatives. She will also collaborate with executive leadership to develop and direct strategic initiatives such as joint ventures and new program services to expand HRS' mission-driven efforts. Her purview includes the following departments: Membership, Data, Journals, Digital Health, Global Relations, and Strategic Partnerships.

With 15 years of nonprofit experience, Ms. Esson has an extraordinary record of cultivating relationships with philanthropists, securing transformative partnership, leading high-performing cross-functional teams, and creating robust multichannel marketing campaigns to impact the lives of those in need.

"The Heart Rhythm Society is thrilled to add someone of Simintha's caliber to our executive team given her deep experience and long-standing dedication to public health.  Simintha brings a wealth of knowledge, contagious energy and a strong commitment to working with the members and strategic partners to improve educational and health outcomes" said Heart Rhythm Society CEO, Patricia Blake.

Most recently, Esson was recognized in Association Ventures Playbook for helping to lead the Council of Chief State School Officers' digital transformation resulting in the launch of the Council's first Learning Portal and learning management system. Previously, she has held executive and leadership roles at the Infectious Disease Society of America, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, and the American Diabetes Association, where she worked in collaboration with the Chicago Bulls to launch MOVE Together program, a city-wide program aimed at providing nutrition and fitness education to youth.

"I've spent my entire career focused on mastering the skills needed to lead strategic change management and development. I am eager to work with the leaders in the world of electrophysiology to advance our mission to end death and suffering due to heart rhythm disorders."

Esson is on the Board of Directors for Loyola University's Black Alumni, and the Center of Healthcare Innovation. She is a former member of the Chicago Executives Club and former Vice President of the Auxiliary Board for UCAN Chicago. Esson has a bachelor's and master's degree from Loyola University in Chicago.