IRVINE, Calif. (June 6, 2025) – Kathy Azeez-Narain, senior vice president and chief digital & customer innovation officer at Hoag, has been named the “2025 Executive of the Year” by the Greater Irvine Chamber. The award was presented at the annual “Celebrate Irvine” event at the Irvine Marriott on June 5, 2025.
The Greater Irvine Chamber recognized exemplary businesses and individuals who are driving positive change and innovation in the community. Kathy was selected for her trailblazing work in healthcare innovation, leading the development of transformative digital tools like Hoag Compass, a preventative wellness program; Nona, a companion for new and expecting mothers; and her efforts on building core technology infrastructure that is not commonplace within the healthcare industry.
“I’m honored to receive the Executive of the Year award from the Greater Irvine Chamber,” said Azeez-Narain. “Digital solutions play a vital role in reshaping how we care for our community and this recognition reflects the collective effort of an incredible team at Hoag committed to transforming healthcare through innovation and compassion. I’m proud of the work being done to improve patient outcomes, access to care and patient experience.”
Kathy’s patient-centric approach has redefined how healthcare organizations think about digital transformation – driving innovation that not only improves patient experience but also challenges legacy systems and mindsets to create more agile, tech-forward, and accessible care models.
A recognized thought leader, her insights have been featured in Forbes, Becker’s Hospital Review, and more. She also advocates for digital health equity by designing tools that are inclusive and accessible to diverse populations. With a background in digital strategy at American Express, Kathy brings a proven track record of impactful, innovative leadership to Hoag.
The “Celebrate Irvine” event recognized honorees for Entrepreneur of the Year, Executive of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Philanthropist of the Year, Inspirational Leader, Emergency Services, Corporate Social Responsibility, Commitment to Sustainability, Non-Profit of the Year, Start-Up of the Year, and Business of the Year. The event also included a panel discussion why businesses chose Irvine as the place to bring their vision to life—and how they are innovating and thriving in an ever-evolving business landscape.
ABOUT HOAG
Hoag is a nonprofit, regional health care delivery system in Orange County, California. Delivering world-class, comprehensive, personalized care, Hoag consists of 1,800 top physicians, 17 urgent care facilities, 11 health & wellness centers, and two award-winning hospitals. Hoag offers a comprehensive blend of health care services that includes seven institutes providing specialized services in the following areas: cancer, digestive health, heart and vascular, neurosciences, spine, women’s health, and orthopedics through Hoag’s affiliate, Hoag Orthopedic Institute, which consists of an orthopedic hospital and five ambulatory surgical centers. Hoag is the highest ranked hospital in Orange County by U.S. News & World Report and the only OC hospital ranked in the Top 10 in California, as well as a designated Magnet® with Distinction hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). For more information, visit hoag.org.
