MemorialCare Announces New Leadership Changes at Orange Coast and Saddleback Medical Centers
In an important transition for the healthcare community, MemorialCare has officially announced the appointment of Emily Randle as the new Chief Executive Officer of Orange Coast Medical Center, effective May 1, 2026. Randle has a rich background within MemorialCare, having previously served as the Chief Operating Officer at the Orange Coast facility since 2012. She takes over the position from Marcia Manker, who is set to retire at the end of this month after years of dedicated service. Among her priorities, Randle aims to nurture a culture of compassion and continuous improvement at the institution, focusing on both local and regional healthcare needs.
"I am truly humbled by the opportunity to continue the strategic growth of Orange Coast Medical Center at the local level," Randle stated. She emphasized the importance of keeping personalized care at the forefront while also retaining the organization’s commitment to academic-level clinical capabilities. Her leadership comes during a period in which Orange Coast Medical Center has achieved remarkable recognition. It has earned six consecutive three-star ratings from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons for excellence in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and multi-procedural cardiac surgery, distinguishing it as the only hospital in Orange County with this honor.
Additionally, the MemorialCare Cancer Institute has been at the forefront of personalized treatment thanks to programs like the Tempus TIME Trials, enhancing accessibility to cutting-edge research for local patients. Randle noted that their unique approach is anchored in human connection, which she believes sets Orange Coast apart. An example of this philosophy is the 'Healing Harmonies' initiative where night nurses volunteer to sing to critically ill patients, infusing their care with genuine kindness and empathy.
Originally from Texas, Randle’s clinical background as a physical therapist has been instrumental in her ascension through various leadership roles at MemorialCare. She has held significant positions at both MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center and Orange Coast. Randle recognizes the significance of maintaining quality patient care while continuously evolving healthcare delivery processes.
Moreover, as part of this leadership restructuring, Shela Kaneshiro, who has completed a year in her role as CEO of Saddleback Medical Center, is focused on expanding clinical programs while enhancing patient safety and access to care. Under her stewardship, Saddleback has taken significant steps such as the onboarding of new specialists in cardiothoracic surgery and the introduction of advanced robotic-assisted surgical technologies. Kaneshiro's tenure has been marked by quality achievement awards and the unique distinction of having the only Level III Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation among MemorialCare’s hospitals.
Kaneshiro expressed optimism for her hospital's journey, stating: "We’ve made great strides as a team in this first year, rising to challenges and celebrating wins alongside our patients." Plans for the next stages include extending women’s services and further strengthening existing surgical programs to better meet community needs. Kaneshiro also came from a background of clinical transformation, having served as the Chief Clinical Transformation Officer at MemorialCare.
As both leaders pave the way for their respective hospitals, their commitment aligns closely with MemorialCare's overarching mission. The organization, a not-for-profit integrated healthcare system operating over 200 care locations, remains dedicated to delivering exceptional healthcare that resonates with the communities it serves. Through innovation and compassion, both Randle and Kaneshiro exemplify the continuity of care that MemorialCare intends to establish for years to come.