Brandon’s career began in New Orleans, where he worked as an anesthesia tech while pursuing his master’s degree. A personal experience caring for his grandmother sparked his interest in the financial side of healthcare, eventually setting him on the path to becoming a CFO. He joined Queen of the Valley Medical Center after visiting Napa and falling in love with the area’s rich history, vibrant culture, and community spirit. Brandon has been passionate about community-centered care and is proud to help ensure the hospital’s financial strength so that it may continue to serve the vulnerable with compassion and excellence.

headshot of Brandon Williams

Briefly describe your work history and what brought you to Napa Valley.

I’ve worked in health care for a little over 15 years. I started out in New Orleans as an anesthesia tech working night shifts while pursuing my master’s. Over time, I shifted my focus to business and operations after a personal experience supporting my grandmother through her cancer diagnosis. When the opportunity came to join Queen of the Valley, I jumped at the chance. I had visited Napa before and was drawn to the area’s beauty and strong sense of community.

Tell us a little bit about your business.

Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center is a 208-bed level III trauma center in Napa. We are a proud community hospital providing world-class care, offering services like maternity care, 24/7 emergency services, and trauma care. We also focus on addressing broader community needs like housing insecurity—having recently invested $4.2 million in supportive housing in Napa, including Heritage House and Valle Verde apartments.

Could you outline your key responsibilities as CFO?

My main responsibility is to maintain the hospital’s financial health so that we can continue to serve all patients, especially those most in need. That means making strategic decisions, supporting sustainable growth, and ensuring we have the resources necessary to fulfill our mission.

Can you talk about what inspired you to pursue this career path?

The defining moment for me was helping care for my grandmother during her battle with cancer. She was caught in the Medicare “donut hole,” which left her with high out-of-pocket expenses. That experience pushed me to learn everything I could about health care finance and coverage. After she passed, I transitioned into a financial analyst role at a local hospital—and that path led me here.

What is the biggest challenge in your role?

Staying ahead of ever-changing economic and healthcare policies. The industry is evolving quickly—Covid brought unique financial challenges, and many hospitals have had to close their doors. We have to be creative, proactive, and adaptable to keep delivering high-quality care.

What are the biggest rewards?

Even though finance doesn’t usually interact with patients directly, knowing that the work I do behind the scenes enables people to get the care they need—that’s incredibly rewarding.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting in your field?

Learn all aspects of health care. Don’t just stay in your lane. Approach the information like it’s going to impact you or someone you love—because one day, it just might.

What are three words that describe you?

Kind, compassionate, and fun.

What’s your personal motto?

Life is a one-time offer—use it well.

Why is it important for your business and the Yountville Chamber to work together?

The Chamber plays a vital role in connecting us to the community. They help amplify the impact we’re making and bring awareness to the care we provide every day.

What do you believe sets Yountville apart from other places you’ve worked?

The people. There’s a real sense of care and engagement here—people genuinely want to support one another, and that’s rare.

If your business had a theme song, what would it be and why?

“Rise Up” by Andra Day. It captures the spirit of healthcare and the strength it takes to continue rising for our patients and loved ones, no matter what.

Do you have a favorite local dish or restaurant?

I’m a foodie at heart. The meatloaf and pork chops at Mustards Grill are my favorites—and of course, the wine pairings are always on point.