The Columbus Regional Health Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Steve Baker will assume the role of President & Chief Executive Officer as of April 1, 2025, as current CEO, Jim Bickel, retires on March 31, 2025.

Baker has served as President and Chief Operating Officer at Columbus Regional Health since August of 2024.

“On behalf of the Trustees, and the entire Columbus Regional Health organization, we are pleased that Steve Baker will become President & CEO, upon Jim Bickel’s retirement.” said Board Chair Don Michael. “Steve’s passion for exemplary care and service, and his commitment to CRH’s unique culture make him and excellent choice to usher the organization into a strong future.”

Baker has been with Columbus Regional Health for 20 years, collectively; serving in various roles, including Chief Information and Technology Officer, Chief Administrative Officer, and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining Columbus Regional Health, Baker served in the United States Air Force for nearly 10 years.

An Indiana native, Baker moved to Columbus in 1998, and joined CRH as Director of Information Services. After briefly pursuing career opportunities out of state from 2010 to 2016, he returned to the community to rejoin Columbus Regional Health. Baker also serves on the Heritage Fund Community Foundation Board and Ascension Rural Healthcare Board.

Bickel announced in late July of 2024 his intent to retire in 2025 after more than 34 years of service at Columbus Regional Health. Upon retirement from the Chief Executive Officer role, Bickel, will continue serving part-time as a strategy advisor to the Board of Trustees and Executive leadership for the remainder of 2025.

“We are elated to celebrate Mr. Bickel in his retirement, and of course, so grateful for his more than 34 years of service to CRH and the community,” Don Michael said. “CRH trustees look forward to continuing work with him as he moves into a more advisory role.”