Leading a Dedicated Oncology Team in Transition
As Medical Director, you'll lead an oncology service in strategic transition, with the opportunity to build and shape your team during a period of growth and transformation. The current staff includes a mix of long-term providers and transitional coverage, creating the chance to recruit and develop a cohesive team aligned with your vision for program excellence.
As the health system’s leadership stated, “It’s time for new blood. It’s time for new energy.” They’re ready to reinvigorate oncology services while maintaining respect for those who have built its strong foundation.
Current Medical Oncology Provider Composition
The oncology service currently includes:
- Dr. Manning – Long-tenured oncologist and current Medical Director (retiring April 2026)
- Dr. Malik – Established oncologist (potential near-term retirement)
- Dr. Nazir – Highly respected 1099 contractor, Wednesday–Friday schedule
- Dr. Mark – Private practice physician at Health Pavilion North (1–2 days weekly)
- Two locum tenens physicians providing consistent coverage
- Dr. Sambidi – New recruit starting June 2025
- Advanced Practice Providers supporting all locations
This composition highlights the opportunity to lead through a planned transition and build the future team of Cape Fear Valley oncology.
Opportunity to Build Your Oncology Team
You’ll have the chance to shape your team and set the standard for future excellence:
- Active recruitment for 3–4 additional oncologists
- Flexible placement across three clinical sites
- Ability to recruit generalists or specialized oncologists
- Support for creating a team with complementary skills
- Autonomy to influence division culture and practice models
Rather than inheriting a fixed team, you’ll have the ability to build a mission-driven oncology division tailored to community needs and your leadership vision.
Respected Senior Oncologists
The team includes experienced oncologists providing stability and mentorship:
- Dr. Manning – Focused on breast cancer, 10+ years at Cape Fear Valley
- Dr. Malik – Special interest in lung cancer
- Dr. Nazir – Deep community ties, known as "the most precious man on the planet"
These physicians offer continuity of care and trusted patient relationships that support the program during this leadership transition.
Dedicated Advanced Practice Providers
The program includes experienced APPs who contribute meaningfully to patient care:
- APPs with 10+ years at Cape Fear Valley
- Manage follow-up panels independently
- Handle routine monitoring and supportive care
- Provide first call coverage, easing physician workload
- Support a collegial team culture centered on mutual respect
As one APP shared, “They’re good doctors, but also good humans,” capturing the supportive, collaborative nature of the department.
Interdisciplinary Cancer Team
You’ll collaborate with a full-spectrum oncology team, including:
- Radiation oncologists for coordinated treatment plans
- Surgical specialists: breast, gynecologic, colorectal
- Breast cancer navigators with plans to expand to other cancers
- Dedicated research staff supporting clinical trials
- Specialized oncology-certified nursing staff
- Infusion center teams at all sites
Your leadership will unify this multidisciplinary care approach and establish standardized care pathways.
Supportive Administrative Leadership
The oncology service is backed by experienced, committed administrative leaders:
- April Maroschak – Corporate Director, 29 years at Cape Fear Valley
- Brian Pierce – VP with responsibility for facility planning
- Dedicated service line administrators for daily operations
- Executive-level support for oncology growth
“She’s going to make this place beautiful,” staff said of April. The administration maintains an open-door policy and is committed to building a high-performing team: “They’ve got to be the best there.”
Departmental Culture and Collaboration
The oncology department thrives on collaboration and shared values:
- Long-standing providers dedicated to the local community
- Tumor boards and informal cross-specialty consultation
- Mutual respect among physicians, APPs, nurses, and admins
- Supportive, family-like culture for new team members
As one APP noted, “If we get somebody here, we treat them well… we rally around people and make them feel welcome.” The environment fosters team cohesion and retention.
Growth Trajectory and Staffing Plans
The program is strategically positioned for expansion:
- Recruiting 3–4 oncologists in the next year
- Facility expansion to accommodate new providers
- Potential for satellite clinic development
- Building specialty services to reduce outmigration
Your role will be pivotal in directing growth, recruiting strategically, and building a high-performance oncology division.
Physician Retention and Stability
While current recruitment stems from transitions, Cape Fear Valley has a strong history of physician retention:
- Departures due to retirement or family relocation
- Many current and former physicians spent decades with the program
With the right leadership and support, the department is well-positioned to rebuild a loyal, long-term team.
As Medical Director, you’ll have the rare opportunity to lead transformation while preserving continuity. With a committed team, administrative support, and strong institutional foundation, you can make a lasting impact on cancer care for the entire region.
