Kaweah Health CEO Gary Herbst Announces Retirement After 34-Year Career with Organization

Kaweah Health today announced that Chief Executive Officer Gary K. Herbst will retire effective June 30, 2026, concluding a distinguished 34-year career with the organization. Herbst, who will be 66 at the time of retirement, has the distinction of being only the fourth CEO in Kaweah Health’s more than 60-year history.

The retirement announcement comes after Herbst’s tenure was extended by one year from the original June 2025 retirement date, with full support from the Board of Directors.

Herbst's journey with Kaweah Health began in 1983 following graduation from the University of the Pacific in Stockton with a degree in Business Administration. Starting as a certified public accountant with Ernst & Whinney (now Ernst & Young), Kaweah Delta District Hospital (now Kaweah Health) became his very first client. After nine years serving Central Valley hospitals, he joined Kaweah Health in 1992 as director of business development, advanced to chief financial officer in 1995, and assumed the CEO role in 2017.

"Deciding when to retire is never easy," Herbst said. "My late father-in-law once told me that you simply know when the time is right — not because of calculations or milestones, but by instinct. I now understand what he meant, and while this is a difficult decision both personally and professionally, I know it is the right time for me and for Kaweah Health."

Under Herbst's leadership, Kaweah Health has transformed from a small community hospital into an award-winning regional medical and trauma center, setting new standards for patient care and community service in the Central Valley.

"Through Gary's leadership, we have continued to meet the evolving needs of our growing community," said Mike Olmos, President of the Kaweah Health Board of Directors. "Many challenges have come our way, and Gary's thoughtful insights and strategic focus inspired trust among team members and the community alike. We thank Gary for his many years of service to our mission and his unwavering commitment to our healthcare district."

The Board of Directors will launch a comprehensive nationwide search for the next CEO beginning as early as July. The thorough selection process will include both internal and external candidates and will provide opportunities for community engagement and input throughout the process.

To ensure a seamless transition, Herbst will remain in his leadership role until a successor is selected. Kaweah Health remains fully committed to its strategic priorities and continued growth during this transition period.

"I am deeply grateful for the privilege of working alongside such talented and dedicated colleagues," Herbst said. "Together, we have accomplished remarkable things for our patients and our community. These accomplishments are a testament to the dedication and teamwork of everyone at Kaweah Health."

Herbst expressed confidence in the organization's future, noting that the next leader will inherit a dedicated team and a thriving organization well-positioned to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community.