Bill McLaughlin named 2025-26 American Heart Association Heart of New York City Chair
NEW YORK, NY, January 6, 2026 – Through the Heart of New York City campaign, Bill McLaughlin, volunteer chair and CEO of Thrive will lead community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual in New York City and beyond has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. The Heart of New York City engages companies, community leaders, and individuals to make a lasting impact across the four chambers of the American Heart Association’s work: discovery, advocacy, access, and knowledge.
The campaign will culminate at the Heart of New York City Gala, celebrating hope and progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association, a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
“I’m honored to serve in this role and excited to collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the American Heart Association,” said Mr. McLaughlin. “Together, we’ll drive innovation and implement proven solutions in science, policy, and care—creating healthier communities, ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive. My mission is to build awareness both in New York City and internally within my organization.”
Bill McLaughlin brings over 25 years of leadership experience in the managed services and technology industry, with a track record of guiding companies through transformation and growth. At his current company, Thrive, he stepped into the CEO role following a successful tenure as President, helping steward the acquisition of multiple companies, expanding its global footprint, and reinforcing its client advocacy and people-first culture.
Outside of his corporate life, Mr. McLaughlin demonstrates a strong commitment to philanthropic leadership and community engagement. He was co-founder and chairman of The Jillian Fund, a nonprofit created to support families coping with a child’s intensive medical treatment, where he emphasizes transparency, service, and tangible impact. His personal leadership philosophy—built on values such as “extreme ownership,” accountability, teamwork and putting mission ahead of ego—underpins how he leads and how he gives back.
The American Heart Association and Thrive will work together to empower individuals to Listen to Your Heart and Thrive — championing wellness, awareness, and connection across our communities. Together, they encourage people to seek care when they need it, equip them with the knowledge to recognize the signs of cardiovascular disease and stroke, and honor the courage of survivors and their families who have faced health challenges with extraordinary heart and strength.
“Bill McLaughlin brings exceptional vision and energy as the CEO of Thrive. His commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission, combined with a clear passion for improving the well-being of our community makes him an outstanding choice to lead this year’s campaign,” said Joe Simone, President of Simone Development Companies, member of the New York City American Heart Association board of directors and past chair of the Heart of New York City Gala. “We welcome Bill as the Heart of New York City chair, which unites leaders across our community to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.”
The 2026 Heart of New York City campaign is sponsored by Thrive and Simone Development Companies and will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Cipriani Wall Street. The annual event is a night to celebrate the Heart Association’s year-round efforts to build a healthier New York City. Throughout the evening, the Heart Association will honor volunteers and patrons, share survivor stories, and entertain guests with dinner and an auction.
For more information on how to support or attend the Heart of New York City Gala, visit www.heart.org/heartofnewyorkcity or contact Rebecca Lefkowitz at Rebecca.Lefkowitz@heart.org.
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For media inquiries:
Mark Hurley; mark.hurley@heart.org; 917-445-0207
Ella Beames; ella.beames@heart.org; 212-878-5910