Faculty Spotlight: Nahal Sabrkhani Translates Executive Healthcare Strategy into Classroom Leadership

In our latest Faculty Spotlight, we are thrilled to feature Nahal Sabrkhani, who teaches Management and Organizational Behavior in Health Systems in the online Master of Health Administration (MHA) Program. A dedicated double-Bruin, Nahal earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Public Health from UCLA, and she continues to give back to her alma mater through various leadership roles within the UCLA Health Policy and Management Alumni Association.

In the professional arena, Nahal is a leader in healthcare strategy and operations. She currently serves as the Vice President of Strategy & Central Operations at Optum Care California, a role she elevated to after building a distinguished, multi-year portfolio within the organization. Her leadership journey at Optum includes pivotal roles as Chief of Staff to the Market President, Senior Director of Population Health, and Director of Patient Retention Programs. Prior to her impactful tenure at Optum, Nahal honed her sharp analytical and strategic skill sets in healthcare consulting at Deloitte and in corporate strategy at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Read on to learn what inspires Nahal about the future of health policy, her experience teaching UCLA’s global executive student community, and why she believes a UCLA degree is uniquely positioned to accelerate a career in healthcare.

What is currently inspiring you in the field of health policy and management?

I am continually inspired by the passion and commitment of the next generation of health care leaders. Our industry is undergoing tremendous change, and I see students and early-career professionals who are deeply dedicated to advocating for what is right and to improving the systems that serve our communities. We are at a pivotal moment in health care, and with thoughtful, courageous voices leading the way, we have an opportunity to create a more effective and equitable future.

What do you enjoy most about teaching in the Executive Programs in HPM at UCLA? What makes this student community unique?

What I enjoy most is the diversity of experiences our students bring to the classroom. Because the MHA is offered online, professionals from around the world come together to learn from one another and share a common educational experience. It is especially rewarding to watch students discover common ground through their professional journeys, even as they contribute distinct cultural perspectives and backgrounds.

Why should someone pursue their Executive MPH or MHA at UCLA?

UCLA offers the best of both worlds: a world-class academic institution and a vibrant community of accomplished professionals. Students learn from faculty and instructors who bring deep, real-world expertise to the classroom, while also benefiting from the insights and experiences of an exceptional peer network. The result is an education that is both rigorous and immediately applicable to advancing one’s career and impact in health care.