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Haywood Regional Medical Center hires new CEO

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) announced today that Phillip L Wright has been named chief executive officer (CEO) for the hospital. He will assume his new role on Jan. 5, 2015.

Wright is a seasoned healthcare executive with 17 years of experience in executive leadership roles. He is currently serving as CEO for Santa Rosa Medical Center in Milton, Fla. Wright has also served as CEO and administrator of hospitals in South Carolina, Florida and Tennessee. 

“We look forward to welcoming Phillip to Haywood Regional Medical Center and the Haywood community,” said Frank Powers, chairman of the HRMC Board of Trustees. “Everyone involved in the selection process was very impressed with the depth of experience and leadership capabilities that Phillip will bring to our hospital. He has more than 30 years of healthcare experience with a proven track record of facilitating strong relationships and building effective teams. We are confident that Phillip will be a great asset to our community.”

 “Phillip has the experience and expertise to lead HRMC into the future,” said Victor Giovanetti, chief operating officer for LifePoint Hospitals’ Eastern Group, which includes HRMC and other Duke LifePoint facilities. “His leadership style is very approachable, and he understands how to work with physicians, employees and volunteers to ensure high-quality patient care.” 

Wright earned a bachelor’s degree in management at the University of West Florida in Pensacola and is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). He and his wife Debbie have been married 35 years and have two boys, Will and Michael. His hobbies include guitar and golf.

“I am excited about this opportunity at Haywood Regional Medical Center,” saidWright. “My primary focus will be to provide the leadership and support necessary to build upon the strong foundation already in place. I look forward to working with physicians, hospital staff and members of the community to further enhance healthcare in Haywood County.” 

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Wright will replace Richard Grogan,who has served in the top leadership role on an interim basis since Aug. 1, 2014.

Haywood Regional Medical Center was acquired by Duke LifePoint Hospitals in August of this year.