Jamestown CFO Named to 40 Under 40, Strengthens Local Healthcare

Derek Schaff, vice president and chief financial officer at Jamestown Regional Medical Center, was named to Prairie Business Magazine's 40 Under 40 for 2025 on December 9, 2025. Schaff joined JRMC in July and has since led the hospital's financial operations while contributing to efforts to expand clinical services, strengthen long term financial strategies, and coordinate with statewide healthcare organizations.

JRMC leaders praised Schaff's collaborative spirit and his mentorship of emerging healthcare leaders. In addition to his JRMC role, Schaff serves with the North Dakota Association's Health Trust, the North Dakota Healthcare Financial Management Association, and on committees within the Rough Rider High Value Network. Those roles signal an outward facing approach to rural hospital finance, linking local decision making with statewide networks that can bring resources and best practices to Jamestown.

For residents of Stutsman County the appointment matters because strong financial leadership helps preserve access to care and sustain local services. Hospital budgets drive staffing, equipment purchases, and the ability to offer specialty clinics close to home. JRMC leadership frames this recognition as evidence of the hospital's commitment to community focused healthcare and to retaining top talent in rural settings.

Schaff's work to strengthen financial strategies is already tied to specific operational goals at JRMC. Expanding services requires careful budgeting, revenue planning, and partnerships across the state that can increase referrals and support new programs. Mentoring younger staff contributes to a local pipeline of administrators and clinicians who are more likely to stay and serve the community.

The award also carries symbolic weight, showing that a professional based in Jamestown can be recognized alongside peers across the region. For a county that depends on JRMC for hospital care, obstetrics, emergency services and specialty clinics, that recognition supports confidence in continuity and future growth. JRMC will continue to rely on financial stewardship as it plans service expansions and workforce development for the coming year.