Robert Garrett will step down as CEO of New Jersey’s largest health network next June after a decade at the helm, with a national search underway for his successor.
WEBDESK – NJNEWSLINE
ISELIN, N.J. — Robert C. Garrett, who has led Hackensack Meridian Health through a period of major expansion, will retire as chief executive officer on June 30, 2027, the health system’s board of trustees announced Monday.
Garrett has served as CEO for about a decade and was a key figure in the 2016 merger that created Hackensack Meridian Health. Since then, the network has grown to 18 hospitals, more than 500 care locations and about 41,000 employees, according to the health system.
In a statement, Garrett said he was “filled with a profound sense of accomplishment” and expressed confidence that the organization’s commitment to excellence would continue after his departure.
Under his leadership, Hackensack Meridian also established the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, expanding the system’s role in medical education and research.
The health network is now preparing for a leadership transition. Its board has begun a national search for Garrett’s replacement and plans to select a new CEO by March 2027. Garrett will remain involved after his retirement as CEO emeritus, beginning July 1, 2027, to assist with the transition.
Keith Banks, chairman of the Hackensack Meridian Health board, credited Garrett and his leadership team with building what he described as New Jersey’s largest health network while expanding its clinical, academic and innovation capabilities.
Garrett’s departure comes as Hackensack Meridian continues to pursue major investments and expansion. The organization is completing a $1 billion fundraising campaign, including a $125 million donation described by the health system as the largest healthcare gift in New Jersey history.
The network has also continued to expand its focus on technology and innovation. In July, Hackensack Meridian announced that it had become the first healthcare network in the United States to receive The Joint Commission’s Responsible Use of AI in Healthcare certification, recognizing its governance and safeguards around artificial intelligence in clinical care and operations.
Hackensack University Medical Center, the flagship facility of the network, currently holds the top position among New Jersey hospitals in the U.S. News & World Report rankings cited by NJ.com.
Garrett has also received national recognition during his tenure. He has appeared on Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People list for four consecutive years and is scheduled to be inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame this week.
The CEO transition will come as Hackensack Meridian explores further growth, including a proposed partnership with Hunterdon Health. The two organizations signed a letter of intent in June to evaluate a potential merger, with the stated goals of expanding access to care, services, research and innovation.
The search for Garrett’s successor will therefore take place against the backdrop of an expanding health system with operations spanning hospitals, ambulatory care, medical education, research and other healthcare services.
Hackensack Meridian’s current executive leadership includes Chief Operating Officer Mark Sparta, Chief Financial Officer Michael Allen and Chief Physician Executive Daniel Varga, among other senior leaders.
Garrett will continue leading the organization until June 30, 2027, giving the board several months to identify and appoint his successor before the transition.
Why it matters
Garrett’s retirement marks a major leadership change for New Jersey’s largest health network after a decade of expansion. The incoming CEO will take charge of an organization that has substantially increased its size while continuing to invest in healthcare delivery, education, research and technology.
