Photo via Community Medical Centers

Last month, Community Health System announced the retirement of CEO Craig Castro; this week, the provider found its new leadership, naming Craig Wagoner as the new CEO on Monday.

Wagoner will assume the new role on Feb. 3, 2025, according to an email obtained by The Business Journal.

Wagoner has served as the network’s vice president and chief operating officer since 2020. Board President Roger Sturdevant said that Wagoner has been part of the organization’s succession plan since his appointment as chief operating officer.

Wagoner joined the network just under 18 years ago as Clovis Community Medical Center’s chief operating officer. During his time with the network, Wagoner has served in various leadership roles including chief operating officer at Community Regional Medical Center, as well as serving as the hospital’s CEO. Wagoner saw his role expand to CEO of both Community Regional and Clovis Community prior to his rise to executive vice president and network chief operating officer.

“This role is vital to Valley residents who depend on effective healthcare leadership and decision-making, and our board is delighted to now formalize this long-established next step in Community’s history,” Sturdevant said.

Sturdevant added that Wagoner’s experience makes him a prime candidate for other health systems nationwide, but emphasized his long-time connection to Community as a driving factor in the network’s commitment to his appointment.

This story was first reported by GV Wire.