Courtney Tipper

Courtney Tipper is a public health executive with more than a decade of experience translating strategy into stronger systems and healthier communities. As Chief Operating Officer of the Baltimore City Health Department, she serves as a strategic advisor and operational partner to the Commissioner of Health, helping drive key initiatives and cross-functional collaboration in support of the department’s mission. Her portfolio spans performance improvement, public health accreditation, workforce development, grants and facilities management, and operations across behavioral health, community health, and disease prevention services.

Before joining Baltimore City, Tipper held several leadership positions with the Shelby County Health Department, including Chief of Staff, Deputy Administrator, and Special Deputy Director of Operations and Programming. As Chief of Staff, she oversaw functions ranging from communications, finance, and information technology to HIV prevention and population health. In earlier roles, she helped coordinate efforts among public health systems, hospitals, healthcare providers, and local government officials to address critical community health challenges, including infant mortality, chronic disease management, and end-of-life care.

Throughout her career, Tipper has developed expertise in clinical operations, compliance, strategic and program planning, workforce development, and public health accreditation. She also extends her commitment to service beyond her professional responsibilities through participation on local boards and committees.

Raised in a military family, Tipper developed an early appreciation for new environments, people, and cultures—an adaptability she carries into each new role and community. Outside of work, she is a devoted mother and avid reader who challenges herself to finish at least one book each month.