After nearly 34 years of service with Columbus Regional Health, Jim Bickel, President and Chief Executive Officer, has announced his intent to retire from the organization in 2025.

CRH extends its most sincere gratitude to Jim Bickel for his numerous contributions and milestones during his years of service, and nearly two decades of serving as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). 

“Jim has lead an exemplary career with Columbus Regional Health – serving in various leadership roles, but most significantly, leading the organization as President and CEO since 2007, gaining accolades for new building projects and expansions, unifying and expanding outpatient and primary care services, and ushering in the incredible community asset of NexusPark,” said CRH Board of Trustees Chair, Mr. Donald Michael.

“Jim’s steady, supportive, and transparent leadership guided CRH through the most complex and evolving challenges of the 2008 flood and COVID-19. On behalf of my fellow Trustees and the entire organization, we are immensely grateful for Jim’s outstanding leadership.”

With this announcement, the Columbus Regional Health Board of Trustees has initiated a succession plan, effective August 1, 2024 that will separate the roles of President and CEO of Columbus Regional Health. Jim Bickel will continue in the role of CEO, and the Board is pleased to announce that the current Chief Operating Officer, Steve Baker, will assume the role of President, in addition to his duties as Chief Operation Officer. As CEO, Jim Bickel will focus on strategic and long-term initiatives for Columbus Regional Health, and as President and Chief Operation Officer, Steve Baker will oversee daily operations of Columbus Regional Health.

CRH is excited to welcome Steve Baker into this elevated role and support and celebrate Jim Bickel as he transitions to a more strategic focus.