By Megan MacNee, MPA, CAE | Executive Director, California Society of Anesthesiologists
I’m thrilled to be writing this as the new Executive Director of the California Society of Anesthesiologists. While many of you already know me from my time as Deputy Executive Director, this marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both myself and CSA.
Over the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of working under the leadership of our outgoing Executive Director, David Butler. I want to thank David for his years of service and the steady guidance he provided during a time of significant growth and change. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside him and learned from him during that time.
Throughout my tenure, I’ve had the chance to connect with many of you—whether through advocacy efforts, committee work, educational programming, or simply listening to what matters most in your practice. I’ve witnessed the extraordinary dedication you bring to improving patient care and safety, and I’m inspired every day by the work anesthesiologists do across California. CSA exists to support that work, and I’m honored to lead the team that helps make it happen.
What Drives Me
What energizes me most in this role is you, our members. Your commitment to clinical excellence, patient safety, advocacy, and education is what makes CSA such a vital organization. My purpose is to ensure that you’re supported: professionally, strategically, and operationally; so you can continue doing the work that matters most.
Our team is focused on providing that support. Whether it’s navigating complex legislative issues, developing impactful CME, or simply making sure CSA’s systems work smoothly for you, we’re here to remove friction and increase value. We’re not just here to manage the organization. We’re here to help you lead the future of anesthesiology in California.
One of the most meaningful parts of my journey with CSA has been the chance to build relationships with so many of our members and leaders. Your encouragement, insights, and genuine support over the years have made a lasting impact on me; not just professionally, but personally. I’ve grown because of the people in this community, and I’m incredibly grateful for the trust and kindness I’ve experienced along the way.
Where We’re Going
Clear Communication & Connection
Communication is at the heart of everything we do whether internally, within leadership, and especially with our members. I’m committed to strengthening how we share information and listen across the organization. That means improving the clarity and consistency of CSA member communications, streamlining leadership updates, and making it easier to engage with the work of the society. Whether it’s CSA Online First, legislative updates, or conference prep, you can expect timely and relevant information that keeps you connected and informed.
Operational Excellence
As CSA has grown, so has the need for strong internal systems. I’ll be working with staff to review and improve key processes; particularly in our financial workflows, such as monthly closeouts, receipt tracking, and billing practices. These improvements will help ensure we’re operating efficiently, minimizing risk, and providing reliable support for leadership and members alike.
Team Collaboration
CSA is supported by a dynamic team; both AMG staff and our exceptional consultants. One of my first priorities is fostering stronger collaboration across teams. That means clarifying roles, improving communication, and aligning efforts across departments so we can better serve our mission. When we work well together internally, the results show up in our programming, our advocacy, and our member experience.
Strengthening Relationships
Whether it’s our partnership with ASA, our work with the CSA Foundation, or our collaborations with external advocacy and education partners, relationships matter. I’ll be investing time in deepening those partnerships to ensure alignment, shared goals, and continued impact at both the state and national level.
A Bit More About Me
I’ve spent my career working in association management, public policy, and strategic facilitation; supporting mission-driven organizations and the professionals who lead them. Before stepping into this role, I served as CSA’s Deputy Executive Director for five years, giving me a strong foundation in the Society’s operations, relationships, and culture.
My background includes a Master of Public Administration and designation as a Certified Association Executive (CAE), and I’ve spent over a decade working across governance, advocacy, membership engagement, and organizational change.
What truly drives me is connection; helping passionate professionals do their best work by making the systems around them better. I believe strong associations have the power to amplify voices, influence policy, and foster real community.
Outside of work, I live with my partner and our two large dogs. I enjoy finding a good meal from the taco stand to a Michelin star restaurant; any chance to get outside whether a hike, camping, or road trips, and any excuse to explore California’s coast or mountains.
Looking Ahead
This first stretch is about building momentum, listening intentionally, and laying the groundwork for meaningful progress. I’ll be working with CSA’s leadership to set shared priorities for the remainder of the year; focusing on what matters most to you and ensuring CSA remains a responsive, member-driven organization.
If you ever have questions, thoughts, or ideas, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at mmacnee@csahq.org.
I’m stepping forward into this role with deep gratitude for the work that’s come before and a clear sense of purpose for where we’re going next. I’m excited for what lies ahead and even more excited to work alongside you to help shape it.
Best,
Megan MacNee, MPA, CAE
Executive Director
California Society of Anesthesiologists