I oversee financial operations across our health system, including our medical center, our school and the faculty practice group. My team handles all accounting functions, including accounts payable, patient accounting, payroll and capital assets, health system budgeting and financing.

What do you enjoy about your work?

Over the past 15 years, we've worked to integrate the finances across our entire health system. That has only happened in a few places across the country, and we're proving that it can be successful. I'm very proud of that. Every day is a challenge, but we continue to find new ways to make sure our money is spent wisely, and that the maximum amount of every dollar helps find more cures and provide better care for patients.

William McGowan is chief financial officer, responsible for overall financial operations of UC Davis Health system.

As CFO, McGowan oversees a budget that includes $1.2 billion in operating revenue. During his tenure with UC Davis, the health system has achieved consistent gains in overall financial performance and a stable bottom line.

He manages all financial functions, including general accounting, accounts payable, patient accounting and payroll. He joined UC Davis in 1995 as assistant director of hospital and clinics, controller and was appointed CFO in February 2002.

Before joining UC Davis, McGowan was regional vice president for Mercy Healthcare Sacramento. He was also chief financial officer at several hospitals within Mercy Healthcare. Previously, McGowan had served as chief financial officer for Monterey County's Natividad Medical Center.