Meet Kristian Spear, who recently was named the new hospital administrator at Memorial Hospital, Biloxi. When she’s not at work, the lifelong Coast resident and married mother of three can be found at golf practices and tournaments, football workouts and games, dance classes and recitals and on a boat or beach during the warmer months.
“We’re always on the move,” she says of her family, “but we make sure to savor the moments we share together — balancing our busy lives with plenty of fun.”
Q: How did you get into your field of work, and where does your passion for it come from?
A: “I’ve been in healthcare for 18 years and have held positions in several clinical roles including technician, registered nurse and nurse practitioner. My journey into hospital administration was driven by the desire to make a broader impact on healthcare systems, helping both patients and staff. The work I do is important because it directly impacts the health and wellbeing of our community. Being in a position where I can influence change at a systemic level is incredibly fulfilling.”
Q: What have been some standout moments in your work that make it all worthwhile?
A: “There are many moments that stand out, but seeing the impact the community felt and the lives that were saved by the efforts that my hospital team and I put forth bringing clinical trials and monoclonal antibody therapy during the height of the COVID pandemic ranks very high on my list. Knowing that the decisions we make in leadership have such a positive ripple effect on patient care and staff morale is always incredibly rewarding.”
Q: What are your professional goals?
A: “One of my professional goals is to strengthen and grow Memorial Hospital Biloxi by expanding access and services and improving patient outcomes. I’m also committed to fostering a positive work environment for our healthcare team, ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to do their best work.”
Q: Who makes your success possible?
A: “My success is made possible by the incredible team of healthcare professionals, administrators and support staff I work alongside every day. It’s the collaboration and dedication of everyone here that allows us to provide exceptional care to our patients.”
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: “While I’m still in the early stages of my role at Memorial Hospital Biloxi, I’m most proud of the opportunity to be part of the team as we lay the foundation for a bright future. I’m excited to be working alongside such a dedicated group of professionals as we create a positive, impactful environment for both our patients and staff.”
Q: How do you define success? What tools or practices do you credit for your success?
A. “Success, to me, is when our hospital is consistently delivering high-quality care, when our staff is engaged and supported and when our patients feel valued and heard. I credit my success to having a strong, supportive dedicated leadership team in Gulfport, clear communication and a deep commitment to continuous improvement.”
Q: How would you describe yourself?
A: “I’d describe myself as someone who is committed, proactive and focused on making meaningful progress. I approach challenges with a positive mindset and a collaborative spirit, always looking for ways to improve processes and outcomes. I believe in leading by example and supporting those around me to achieve their best.”
Q: What is something most people don’t know about you?
A: “I strongly believe in maintaining a work-life balance and have a deep love for traveling. That said, I’m not great at planning vacations in advance. Most of our trips are totally spontaneous, whether it’s a sudden beach getaway, an impromptu afternoon on the boat or a last-minute dinner at a new place. I thrive on those unplanned moments that turn into lasting memories. For me, it’s all about seizing the moment and making the most of the time we have together, no matter how hectic life can get.”