counties: Hamilton County

Chattanooga continues to strengthen its position as a hub for innovation and high-growth companies with the expansion of Valerie Health, an AI-powered healthcare technology company, into the region. The San Francisco-based company has announced the establishment of a new regional operations hub in downtown Chattanooga, marking a significant investment in the local economy and workforce.
Valerie Health serves independent provider groups by embedding AI agents with human-in-the-loop operations directly into existing clinic workflows and systems. This technology automates administrative tasks such as referrals, faxes and scheduling, helping improve patient access and streamline care delivery. The Chattanooga office will play a central role in scaling these operations as the company grows.
As part of its expansion, Valerie Health plans to create 100 new jobs by the end of 2026, with a goal of more than 200 jobs within three years. Roles will span operations, engineering, and sales, offering competitive compensation and benefits, including 99% employer-covered health insurance and equity for all full-time employees. This job creation represents a meaningful opportunity for workforce growth in a fast-growing, emerging healthcare technology sector.
The Chattanooga hub will be led by Lauren (Mullins) Coile, director of operations, who brings local experience from One to One Health and Bellhop, along with a strong background in healthcare innovation. Valerie Health’s leadership team also includes CEO and co-Founder Pete Shalek, formerly of Optum and AbleTo, and CTO and co-Founder Nitin Joshi, formerly of Uber and Stripe.
“We’re thrilled to invest in Chattanooga’s vibrant talent pool and contribute to the city’s growing healthcare technology ecosystem,” said Pete Shalek, CEO of Valerie Health. “This expansion reflects our commitment to long-term growth and our mission to empower independent provider groups with cutting-edge technology.”
Local leaders welcomed the announcement as a positive signal for the region’s economic momentum. Adam Myers, vice president of economic and talent development for the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the career opportunities created by the expansion, noting the accelerated growth potential for residents in an emerging sector.
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly emphasized the broader impact on the community, citing the confidence innovative companies place in the region’s tech sector and workforce. Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp echoed this sentiment, pointing to the region’s quality of life and entrepreneurial roots as key factors in attracting investment that strengthens families and the local economy.
Valerie Health’s decision to establish a regional operations hub in Chattanooga represents more than a company expansion — it underscores the region’s growing reputation as a destination for healthcare technology, innovation, and high-quality job creation.