Power of the purse

Ben Spence appears surprisingly relaxed for someone who oversees the finances for four hospitals and more than 10,000 employees.

Spence was appointed chief financial officer of Lee Memorial Health System in September, capping a nearly 20-year career that began as a clerk in the reimbursement department.

Spence is charged with managing the finances of the sprawling health care system while developing the strategic vision for future growth. At the top of his to-do list: preparing a $100 million bond issue to finance the construction of Golisano Children's Hospital and finding a way to build a $140 million health campus in South Lee County.