Dava
Freed

Dava Freed has worked in the healthcare industry for more than 45 years and founded Freed Associates (Freed) in 1991. She began her healthcare career first in research, followed by working in TB Control. After earning a master’s degree in public health from the University of California, Berkeley, she spent a decade in healthcare consulting at Accenture before founding Freed Associates.

From the outset, Dava’s vision for Freed was clear: to build a consulting firm with a caring, supportive culture grounded in the core values of treating everyone as an esteemed individual who delivers the highest quality work for clients. Under her leadership, Freed has grown into a team of deeply experienced healthcare consultants known for their commitment to clients, colleagues, and achieving meaningful impact.

As a seasoned healthcare executive and consultant, Dava led Freed through 35 years of political, industry and cultural change. As the healthcare landscape evolved, she ensured that Freed’s growth, services and client partnerships adapted in step.

In 2026, Dava proudly transitioned the role of CEO to her daughter, Allie Freed. Dava remains Chair of the Board and leads Freed’s Advisory Council, continuing to provide strategic direction, governance oversight, and fiduciary stewardship.

Today, as a highly successful family-owned firm, Freed reflects the ideals Dava established. Her legacy provides the foundation on which Freed will continue to adapt and thrive in the future.

• Founder of Freed Associates with more than 45 years of healthcare industry and consulting experience, bringing strategic insights and practical knowledge to the board of directors
• Architect of a values-driven, people-first culture known for integrity, well-being and long-tenured teams, grounding board decisions in a strong commitment to employees and clients
• Long-term steward of the firm’s legacy and relationships, ensuring Freed’s core values and client-centric approach guide the organization’s next chapter