Kaweah Health Chief Executive Officer Gary Herbst will retire next year.
The healthcare provider announced Herbst’s upcoming retirement on Tuesday.
The big picture: Herbst, who has been with Kawah Health for 34 years, will serve in his role until June 30, 2026.
- His tenure was already extended by one year from the original June 2025 retirement date.
Driving the news: Herbst graduated from the University of the Pacific in 1983 with a degree in Business Administration and started his career as a certified public accountant with Ernst & Whinney, where Kaweah Delta District Hospital – now Kaweah Health – became his first client.
- He joined Kaweah Health in 1992 as director of business development and became the chief financial officer in 1995 before becoming CEO in 2017.
What we’re watching: The Kaweah Health Board of Directors plans to launch a nationwide search for the next CEO as early as July.
- The board plans to include both internal and external candidates.
- Herbst will stay on with Kaweah Health until his successor is selected.
What they’re saying: “Deciding when to retire is never easy,” Herbst said. “My late father-in-law once told me that you simply know when the time is right – not because of calculations or milestones, but by instinct. I now understand what he meant, and while this is a difficult decision both personally and professionally, I know it is the right time for me and for Kaweah Health.”
- Board of Directors President Mike Olmos said the hospital has continued to meet the evolving needs of the growing community through Herbst’s leadership.
- “Many challenges have come our way, and Gary’s thoughtful insights and strategic focus inspired trust among team members and the community alike,” Olmos said. “We thank Gary for his many years of service to our mission and his unwavering commitment to our healthcare district.”
