Our Team
Healthcare Connections executive team brings decades of experience and thoughtful leadership that guide the company’s direction to fulfill our mission as a full-service staffing firm.
Erik Presnell
Chief Executive Officer
Erik Presnell
Chief Executive Officer
Erik Presnell is the Chief Executive Officer of Healthcare Connections. Erik oversees the long- and short-term strategies for the company as well as the current day to day operations as it relates to finance, technology, and human resources.
Erik started his career in the staffing industry in 1999 with Linde Healthcare, where he served as the Manager of Information Systems. He oversaw the growth and expansion of the technology platform to help keep Linde Healthcare at the forefront of innovation in physician staffing. He served as the head of their IT department for 10 years before moving on to a position in the banking sector.
In September of 2013, he returned to staffing to partner up with Melissa Underbrink and purchased the locum tenens division from PracticeMatch, an internet-based sourcing tool that connects physicians with potential employers. Together they relaunched the company as Healthcare Connections with a focus on creating meaningful partnerships with physicians, clients, and recruiters.
Melissa Underbrink
President & Chief Operating Officer
Melissa Underbrink
President & Chief Operating Officer
Melissa oversees all aspects of the physician staffing operations, including strategy development, expansion of existing and new service offerings, business development, and overall financial performance.
Before starting up Healthcare Connections, Melissa managed the sales, client relations, and locum tenens departments of PracticeMatch. As Vice President, her responsibilities included: talent recruitment, management, and retention for new business development. Melissa also oversaw all top line billings, operating costs, and profits to meet budget expectations. PracticeMatch is an internet-based sourcing tool that connects physicians with potential employers.
Melissa began her career in physician staffing with Linde Healthcare, a St. Louis based organization in 1997 and quickly established herself as a top producer. She was promoted to Team Leader of the Primary Care division and under her leadership, the division grew to be the most profitable division of the company and exceeded production expectations year after year. This led to further promotions to include Team Director and the continued expansion of specialties. When Melissa departed Linde Healthcare in 2011, she served as their Chief Operating Officer.
Melissa graduated with a degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology from the University of Illinois- Edwardsville.
Adrian Jacquot
Managing Partner
Adrian Jacquot
Managing Partner
Adrian is the Managing Partner of Healthcare Connections, a leading provider of Locum Tenens staffing solutions. With over 22 years of experience in the industry, Adrian brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role.
One of Adrian's key passions lies in coaching and development, both professionally and personally. He is committed to fostering a great, fun, and rewarding culture within Healthcare Connections, ensuring that every team member thrives and achieves their full potential.
Prior to his role at Healthcare Connections, Adrian held senior level positions within a large national physician staffing company, further enriching his understanding of the industry and strengthening his ability to deliver outstanding service to clients and providers.
Outside of work, Adrian finds joy in spending quality time with his family. He resides in Belleville, IL, with his wife Bridgett and their two high school-aged children. When he's not working or enjoying family and friends, you can find Adrian on the sidelines, coaching basketball and baseball for his son's travel teams, further exemplifying his dedication to mentorship and community involvement.
Zach Gorla
Managing Partner
Zach Gorla
Managing Partner
Zach is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the industry, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to delivering value to both clients and providers. Prior to joining Healthcare Connections, Zach held influential leadership roles and was recognized as a high producer, showcasing his exceptional skills and dedication. As someone who believes in the power of mentorship and development, Zach is not only passionate about making meaningful contributions as a professional, but also in his personal life as an active youth soccer coach and mentor.
He resides in St. Charles, MO and if he is not on the soccer field you can find him spending quality time with friends and family, including his beloved chocolate lab, Hank.
