Hackensack Meridian Health’s chief executive will retire on June 30, 2027, the board of trustees announced Monday.
Robert C. Garrett, who has led the healthcare system for a decade, said in a statement he was “filled with a profound sense of accomplishment” and felt “confident that this commitment to excellence will continue to thrive.”
Under Garrett’s leadership, Hackensack Meridian grew to 18 hospitals with 41,000 employees and more than 500 care locations — nearly triple its size from 10 years ago.
He played a key role in the mega-merger that united Hackensack University Health Network and Meridian Health in 2016.
He was also instrumental in opening the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, New Jersey’s first new private medical school in decades.
“Under Bob’s leadership, he and his exceptional team created the state’s largest health network — which is nationally recognized for high-quality care, growth and innovation,” said Keith Banks, board chairman.
Hackensack University Medical Center is ranked as the top hospital in New Jersey, according to U.S. News & World Report. Hackensack Meridian also ranks No. 39 on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For list and operates New Jersey’s top-ranked cancer center.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill called Garrett “a transformative leader” and “a proven partner to New Jersey.”
The network is finishing a $1 billion fundraising campaign that includes a $125 million gift — the largest healthcare donation in New Jersey history.
Garrett has appeared on Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People list for four years and will be inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame Thursday.
The board will search for Garrett’s replacement and plans to name a new CEO by March 2027. Garrett will become CEO emeritus on July 1, 2027, to help with the transition.
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