Ellinwood Hospital Announces Interim CEOs Amid Ongoing Search
URGENT UPDATE: Ellinwood Hospital and Clinics is in the midst of a critical transition as it searches for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Just announced, the hospital board has appointed Summer Zink, CFO, and Jill Ritchie, CNO, as Co-Interim Chief Executive Officers to lead the organization during this pivotal time.
The board is currently interviewing candidates after receiving an overwhelming response of 58 resumes from applicants spanning across Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, and several other states. In a rigorous evaluation, six candidates were selected for initial interviews, which were conducted both in-person and virtually over the past two weeks.
Following these first-round interviews, two candidates stood out and were invited for in-depth follow-up interviews last night. Both candidates are set to return after the holidays for formal, on-site evaluations as the board intensifies its selection process. The urgent goal is to appoint a new CEO by early 2026.
Despite the leadership changes, hospital officials are reassuring the community that there will be no disruption to patient care, access, or services. Zink will oversee administrative operations, while Ritchie will manage clinical operations, ensuring stability during this transition.
Board president David Gonzales expressed confidence in the interim leadership team’s capability to maintain operational stability. “The board is confident in the strength of our leadership team and the operational stability of Ellinwood Hospital and Clinics,” Gonzales stated. “Our focus remains on providing high-quality, compassionate care while thoughtfully selecting the next permanent CEO.”
The board also took a moment to acknowledge the contributions of Kile Magner, who has led the hospital for the past decade and is transitioning to a new role as CEO of Myrtue Medical Hospital in Harlan, Iowa. Gonzales thanked Magner for his dedication, emphasizing that Ellinwood Hospital remains strong and well-positioned for future growth.
As the search for a new CEO continues, the board remains committed to transparency and open communication with the community, highlighting the hospital’s ongoing growth in services, facilities, and specialty care. Stakeholders and residents can expect regular updates as the selection process progresses.
Stay tuned for further developments as Ellinwood Hospital and Clinics navigates this crucial period in its leadership transition. The hospital is poised to continue serving the community with dedication and excellence, maintaining its trajectory of growth and enhanced healthcare services.
