After a months-long search, Columbus Regional Health has tapped Andrew "Andy" Guz as its next president and chief executive officer, effective July 1, the system announced Monday. Guz is leaving Manatee Health in Bradenton, Florida, where he has been overseeing the network's hospital and outpatient operations. The move gives the Columbus-based system a leader with fresh experience running a multi-site health network.
In a statement to The Republic, Board Chair Don Michael said, "We are thrilled to welcome Andy to Columbus Regional Health." The health system lists more than 2,400 employees and a 225-bed flagship hospital on its website, with roughly 225 physicians on medical staff, per Columbus Regional Health.
Guz's background
Guz currently serves as CEO of Manatee Memorial Hospital and the broader Manatee Health network, where he has led recent outpatient growth and facility projects, according to Manatee Health. Before that role, he led Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. He holds a Master of Health Administration from Cornell University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Marshall University.
Transition and timing
Guz will officially take over on July 1, succeeding Jim Bickel, who retired after 35 years of leadership at Columbus Regional Health, The Republic reports. Trustees cited his operational background and track record growing hospital and outpatient services as key reasons for the hire.
What Guz will oversee
As president and CEO, Guz will oversee Columbus Regional Hospital's inpatient services, the CRH physician network and the system's outpatient clinics and development projects. Columbus Regional Health is a member of the Cleveland Clinic Connected program. Guz's record in Florida, which includes work on freestanding emergency departments and a major patient-bed tower project, lines up with the type of operational experience trustees said they were seeking, according to Manatee Health.
Board officials say details on transition logistics and a public welcome will be released in the coming weeks. Guz, who lives in Lakewood Ranch with his wife Tami and two daughters, has been active in community boards and youth sports, according to profiles in SRQ Magazine.
