Bob Dent
DNP, MBA, ACC, FACHE, FAAN, FAONL
GA, USAudiences leave Dr. Bob Dent’s talks deeply inspired and ready to lead with purpose, courage, and compassion. With 35+ years as a healthcare executive, Bob blends powerful stories, practical wisdom, and emotional insight to help leaders rise through adversity, build ownership cultures, and create lasting impact.
Dr. Bob Dent, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, ACC, FACHE, FAAN, FAONL
Executive Coach | Leadership Speaker | Culture Strategist
Dr. Bob Dent is a nationally recognized executive coach, healthcare leader, and keynote speaker who empowers audiences to lead with both grit and grace. With over 35 years of executive experience—including roles as Chief Nursing Officer, system executive, and national board chair—Bob brings an authentic, inspiring message grounded in real-world leadership.
He is the co-author of five leadership books, including the award-winning Building a Culture of Ownership in Healthcare. His most requested keynotes help leaders navigate adversity, build resilient teams, and cultivate cultures rooted in accountability, trust, and engagement.
Bob’s audiences—ranging from nurse managers to CEOs—walk away energized with actionable tools, renewed clarity, and a deeper commitment to lead with purpose.
Why Audiences Love Bob Dent
- Relatable, real-life stories that connect heart to mission
- Evidence-based insights backed by decades of healthcare leadership
- Immediately applicable frameworks to improve culture, morale, and performance
- A message of hope, courage, and transformation that resonates across industries
Most Requested Topics
- Culture by Design, Not Default: Building a Culture of Ownership That Lasts
Unpack the principles of self-empowerment, emotional resilience, and full engagement that fuel a Culture of Ownership—moving beyond policies to purpose.
- The R&R Leader: Relentless & Resilient Leadership in Times of Change
Discover how to lead with grit, grace, and purpose through disruption by embracing a relentless and resilient mindset grounded in values and lived experience.
- The Mask I Wore: A CNO’s Journey Through Depression, Healing, and Hope
This keynote challenges the myth of invincibility in leadership and equips attendees to build workplaces that protect both performance and mental well-being. A raw, hopeful, and human keynote that explores the hidden mental health struggles of high-performing leaders—and what it takes to come back stronger.
- Coach, Don’t Command: Developing Leadership at Every Level
Learn how to shift from traditional top-down leadership to a coaching mindset that fosters trust, accountability, and transformational growth.
- Launch with Leadership: Essential Tools for New and Aspiring Nurse Leaders
Equip new leaders with the practical tools, mindset shifts, and support systems needed to lead with confidence in today’s complex healthcare environment.
- Trauma-Informed Leadership: Creating Safety, Empathy, and Belonging at Work
Explore how understanding trauma—not just in patients but in ourselves and our teams—can radically transform your leadership approach and workplace culture.
Dr. Bob Dent blends executive expertise with emotional intelligence to deliver more than a speech—he delivers transformation. If you’re looking for a speaker who moves hearts, elevates teams, and drives results, Bob is the voice your audience needs now.
Resume Summary
A highly accomplished and enterprising senior healthcare executive with multifaceted experience in patient care services, nursing leadership, operational management, and healthcare consulting. Proven aptitude for directing clinical operations, driving quality improvement initiatives, and developing strategic healthcare programs. Track record of integrating evidence-based practices and innovative leadership solutions to advance organizational goals. Leverages exemplary leadership, organizational, and communication skills to drive excellence in healthcare delivery while maintaining industry-leading standards of compliance, patient care, and operational efficiency.
Financial Reporting | Financial Modeling | Regulatory Compliance | Budgeting | Strategy | Strong Communication | Project Management | People Development | Relationship Building
Experience
Dr. Bob Dent LLC, DBA DBD Coaching and Consulting Atlanta Metro, Georgia
Founder and Chief Executive Coach.............................................................................................................................. 2023-present
Emory Healthcare Decatur, Georgia
Vice President, Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer............................................................................... 2019-2025
Midland health | Midland Memorial Hospital Midland, Texas
Senior Vice President, Chief Operating and Chief Nursing Officer............................................................................. 2014-2019
Vice President, Patient Care Services, Chief Nursing Officer..................................................................................... 2009-2013
Vice President, Nursing Services, Chief Nursing Officer............................................................................................. 2007-2009
Additional experience
Midland College – Health Sciences Center, Midland, Texas, Interim Dean, Health Sciences Center, 2013-2014.
Banner Health, Chief Nursing Officer and Associate Administrator, Sterling Regional MedCenter, 2005-2006. Long-Term Care Administrator & Magnet Program Director, Banner Desert Care Center, Banner Desert Medical Center, 2000-2005. Director of Nursing & Magnet Program Director, Banner Desert Care Center, Banner Desert Medical Center , 1999-2000. Assistant Director of Nursing, Banner Desert Care Center, 1998-1999. Registered Nurse – Critical Care, Emergency Department, Cath Lab, and SWAT, 1993-1998.
ACADEMIC APPOINTMENTS
Emory University School of Nursing ………………………………………………………………………………………………2019-Present
Texas Tech University School of Nursing ……………………………………………………………………………………..2010-Present
University of Texas of the Permian Basin ……………………………………………………………………….…………….2010-2019
University of Phoenix ………………………………………………………………..………………………………….....……………..2005-2008
Education
Emory University Goizueta Business School, Atlanta, Georgia
Executive Coaching Certificate
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing, Lubbock, Texas
Doctor of Nursing Practice
University of Phoenix,Phoenix, Arizona
Master of Business Administration
University of Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
South Plains College, Levelland, Texas
Associate Degree in Nursing
Certifications
NEA-BC | ACC | FACHE | FAAN | FAONL
Affiliations
National Board President, American Organization for Nursing Leadership, Fellow, Past President and Board Member
American College of Healthcare Executives, Fellow
American Academy of Nursing, Fellow
American Nurses Association, Board Certified Advanced Nurse Executive
International Coaching Federation, Certified Coach
National Speakers Association
Gallup CliftonStrengths Certified Coach
Honors & Awards
- Academy of Medical-Surgical Nursing (AMSN) "The Tony Award", 2023 – Recognized for extraordinary contributions to nursing practice and healthcare enhancement. Awarded at AMSN Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.
- Richard Hader Visionary Leader Award, 2016 – Presented by Nursing Management Congress, honoring nurse leaders who integrate caring and competence in nursing as both art and science.
- Distinguished Alumni Award, 2014 – Awarded by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing for significant contributions to nursing and healthcare leadership.
- Excellence in Leadership Award, 2014 – Presented by Texas Organization of Nurse Executives at Texas Hospital Association’s annual meeting. Recognized for outstanding contributions to nursing leadership in Texas.
- Modern Healthcare "Up & Comer" Recognition, 2006 – One of 12 young healthcare executives nationwide recognized for significant contributions to healthcare administration and leadership.
Books & Book Contributions (10+ Books, Multiple Chapters)
· Leadership and Nursing Care Management (8th ed., 2025) – Revised Chapter: "Communication Leadership."
· Building Culture of Ownership in Healthcare (3rd ed., 2024) – Co-authored with Joe Tye. Four-time Award Winning.
· Healing Healthcare: Evidence-Based Strategies to Mend our Broken System (2024) – Contributing Author.
· Growing Dynamic Leaders through Mentoring (2023) – Co-authored Chapter.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER & PRESENTATIONS (100+ National & International)
- ANCC Magnet & Pathway to Excellence Conference
- CONNECT 2023 Conference for Practicing Excellence
- Academy of Med-Surg Nursing Annual Conference
- American Association of Men in Nursing
- Texas Hospital Association & AONL Annual Meetings
Dr. Bob Dent, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, ACC, FACHE, FAAN, FAONL
Executive Coach | Leadership Speaker | Culture Strategist
Dr. Bob Dent is a nationally recognized executive coach, healthcare leader, and keynote speaker who empowers audiences to lead with both grit and grace. With over 35 years of executive experience—including roles as Chief Nursing Officer, system executive, and national board chair—Bob brings an authentic, inspiring message grounded in real-world leadership.
He is the co-author of five leadership books, including the award-winning Building a Culture of Ownership in Healthcare. His most requested keynotes help leaders navigate adversity, build resilient teams, and cultivate cultures rooted in accountability, trust, and engagement.
Bob’s audiences—ranging from nurse managers to CEOs—walk away energized with actionable tools, renewed clarity, and a deeper commitment to lead with purpose.
Why Audiences Love Bob Dent
- Relatable, real-life stories that connect heart to mission
- Evidence-based insights backed by decades of healthcare leadership
- Immediately applicable frameworks to improve culture, morale, and performance
- A message of hope, courage, and transformation that resonates across industries
Most Requested Topics
- Culture by Design, Not Default: Building a Culture of Ownership That Lasts
Unpack the principles of self-empowerment, emotional resilience, and full engagement that fuel a Culture of Ownership—moving beyond policies to purpose.
- The R&R Leader: Relentless & Resilient Leadership in Times of Change
Discover how to lead with grit, grace, and purpose through disruption by embracing a relentless and resilient mindset grounded in values and lived experience.
- The Mask I Wore: A CNO’s Journey Through Depression, Healing, and Hope
This keynote challenges the myth of invincibility in leadership and equips attendees to build workplaces that protect both performance and mental well-being. A raw, hopeful, and human keynote that explores the hidden mental health struggles of high-performing leaders—and what it takes to come back stronger.
- Coach, Don’t Command: Developing Leadership at Every Level
Learn how to shift from traditional top-down leadership to a coaching mindset that fosters trust, accountability, and transformational growth.
- Launch with Leadership: Essential Tools for New and Aspiring Nurse Leaders
Equip new leaders with the practical tools, mindset shifts, and support systems needed to lead with confidence in today’s complex healthcare environment.
- Trauma-Informed Leadership: Creating Safety, Empathy, and Belonging at Work
Explore how understanding trauma—not just in patients but in ourselves and our teams—can radically transform your leadership approach and workplace culture.
Dr. Bob Dent blends executive expertise with emotional intelligence to deliver more than a speech—he delivers transformation. If you’re looking for a speaker who moves hearts, elevates teams, and drives results, Bob is the voice your audience needs now.
Resume Summary
A highly accomplished and enterprising senior healthcare executive with multifaceted experience in patient care services, nursing leadership, operational management, and healthcare consulting. Proven aptitude for directing clinical operations, driving quality improvement initiatives, and developing strategic healthcare programs. Track record of integrating evidence-based practices and innovative leadership solutions to advance organizational goals. Leverages exemplary leadership, organizational, and communication skills to drive excellence in healthcare delivery while maintaining industry-leading standards of compliance, patient care, and operational efficiency.
Financial Reporting | Financial Modeling | Regulatory Compliance | Budgeting | Strategy | Strong Communication | Project Management | People Development | Relationship Building
Experience
Dr. Bob Dent LLC, DBA DBD Coaching and Consulting Atlanta Metro, Georgia
Founder and Chief Executive Coach.............................................................................................................................. 2023-present
Emory Healthcare Decatur, Georgia
Vice President, Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer............................................................................... 2019-2025
Midland health | Midland Memorial Hospital Midland, Texas
Senior Vice President, Chief Operating and Chief Nursing Officer............................................................................. 2014-2019
Vice President, Patient Care Services, Chief Nursing Officer..................................................................................... 2009-2013
Vice President, Nursing Services, Chief Nursing Officer............................................................................................. 2007-2009
Additional experience
Midland College – Health Sciences Center, Midland, Texas, Interim Dean, Health Sciences Center, 2013-2014.
Banner Health, Chief Nursing Officer and Associate Administrator, Sterling Regional MedCenter, 2005-2006. Long-Term Care Administrator & Magnet Program Director, Banner Desert Care Center, Banner Desert Medical Center, 2000-2005. Director of Nursing & Magnet Program Director, Banner Desert Care Center, Banner Desert Medical Center , 1999-2000. Assistant Director of Nursing, Banner Desert Care Center, 1998-1999. Registered Nurse – Critical Care, Emergency Department, Cath Lab, and SWAT, 1993-1998.
ACADEMIC APPOINTMENTS
Emory University School of Nursing ………………………………………………………………………………………………2019-Present
Texas Tech University School of Nursing ……………………………………………………………………………………..2010-Present
University of Texas of the Permian Basin ……………………………………………………………………….…………….2010-2019
University of Phoenix ………………………………………………………………..………………………………….....……………..2005-2008
Education
Emory University Goizueta Business School, Atlanta, Georgia
Executive Coaching Certificate
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing, Lubbock, Texas
Doctor of Nursing Practice
University of Phoenix,Phoenix, Arizona
Master of Business Administration
University of Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
South Plains College, Levelland, Texas
Associate Degree in Nursing
Certifications
NEA-BC | ACC | FACHE | FAAN | FAONL
Affiliations
National Board President, American Organization for Nursing Leadership, Fellow, Past President and Board Member
American College of Healthcare Executives, Fellow
American Academy of Nursing, Fellow
American Nurses Association, Board Certified Advanced Nurse Executive
International Coaching Federation, Certified Coach
National Speakers Association
Gallup CliftonStrengths Certified Coach
Honors & Awards
- Academy of Medical-Surgical Nursing (AMSN) "The Tony Award", 2023 – Recognized for extraordinary contributions to nursing practice and healthcare enhancement. Awarded at AMSN Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.
- Richard Hader Visionary Leader Award, 2016 – Presented by Nursing Management Congress, honoring nurse leaders who integrate caring and competence in nursing as both art and science.
- Distinguished Alumni Award, 2014 – Awarded by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing for significant contributions to nursing and healthcare leadership.
- Excellence in Leadership Award, 2014 – Presented by Texas Organization of Nurse Executives at Texas Hospital Association’s annual meeting. Recognized for outstanding contributions to nursing leadership in Texas.
- Modern Healthcare "Up & Comer" Recognition, 2006 – One of 12 young healthcare executives nationwide recognized for significant contributions to healthcare administration and leadership.
Books & Book Contributions (10+ Books, Multiple Chapters)
· Leadership and Nursing Care Management (8th ed., 2025) – Revised Chapter: "Communication Leadership."
· Building Culture of Ownership in Healthcare (3rd ed., 2024) – Co-authored with Joe Tye. Four-time Award Winning.
· Healing Healthcare: Evidence-Based Strategies to Mend our Broken System (2024) – Contributing Author.
· Growing Dynamic Leaders through Mentoring (2023) – Co-authored Chapter.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER & PRESENTATIONS (100+ National & International)
- ANCC Magnet & Pathway to Excellence Conference
- CONNECT 2023 Conference for Practicing Excellence
- Academy of Med-Surg Nursing Annual Conference
- American Association of Men in Nursing
- Texas Hospital Association & AONL Annual Meetings
Culture by Design, Not Default: Building a Culture of Ownership That Lasts
Format: 60 minute keynote
This program is perfect for:
- Healthcare
- Colleges and Universities
- Leadership Retreats
The audience will leave with:
- A clear framework for building a Culture of Ownership rooted in self-empowerment, emotional resilience, and full engagement.
- Actionable strategies for leadership modeling and eliminating toxic...
The Mask I Wore: A CNO’s Journey Through Depression, Healing, and Hope
Format: 60-minute keynote
This program is perfect for:
- Healthcare executives and nurse leaders navigating high-pressure roles
- Organizations seeking to foster cultures of psychological safety and well-being
The audience will leave with:
- A deeper understanding of the hidden mental health struggles that often accompany high-performing leadership...
The R&R Leader: Relentless & Resilient Leadership in Times of Change
Format: 60-minute keynote
This program is perfect for:
- Senior leaders and emerging executives navigating disruption and transformation
- Organizations seeking to build high-performance cultures grounded in purpose and perseverance
The audience will leave with:
- A framework for building leadership resilience through adversity, change, and...
Coach, Don’t Command: Developing Leadership at Every Level
Format: 60-minute keynote
This program is perfect for:
- Nurse managers, directors, and executive leaders committed to growing their leadership impact
- Organizations aiming to build cultures of ownership & accountability, psychological and emotional safety, and professional growth
The audience will leave with:
- A practical understanding of how to lead with...
Launch with Leadership: Essential Tools for New and Aspiring Nurse Leaders
Format: 60-minute keynote
This program is perfect for:
- New nurse managers, assistant nurse managers, and clinical leaders transitioning into formal leadership roles
- Healthcare organizations focused on developing internal leadership pipelines and reducing turnover in first-time leader roles
The audience will leave with:
- A foundational leadership toolkit...
Trauma-Informed Leadership: Creating Safety, Empathy, and Belonging at Work
Format: 60-minute keynote
This program is perfect for:
- Leaders, educators, and HR professionals seeking to build psychologically and emotionally safe and inclusive environments
- Healthcare teams and organizations committed to emotional well-being, equity, and trauma-sensitive practices
The audience will leave with:
- A deeper understanding of how personal and...
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