With over 30 years of communications, government, public relations and management experience in Idaho and Washington DC, Brian Whitlock brings an insider’s view of how government works to IHA as the President and CEO.
He joined the Association in 2015 and leads a team of dedicated professionals in providing voice, value and visibility to community hospitals. He creates sound policies for healthcare at both the state and federal levels, as well as works to evolve our healthcare system to one focused on quality and value for all Idahoans.
Brian’s extensive service, sage advice, and insight on Capitol Hill and in Idaho’s Statehouse make him a trusted advisor to many elected officials and lawmakers. You cannot take too many steps around the Statehouse without someone calling out Brian’s name.
Prior to joining the Association, Brian was the Director of State and Regional Governmental Affairs for the Idaho National Laboratory and advocated on behalf of nearly 4,000 scientists, researchers and engineers in eastern Idaho.
He was a trusted advisor, Chief of Staff, and State Budget Director to Governor Dirk Kempthorne. As budget director, he managed the state’s $4 billion budget impacting every Idahoan through hundreds of programs and state agencies. He also served in senior staff positions for Senator Dirk Kempthorne and Senator Jim McClure.
Brian is a 1985 graduate of Brigham Young University with a degree in Broadcast Communications. He and his wife Kelly have three children: Alex, married to Jenni; James, married to Jessica, and Megan.