Kaweah Health Names Marc Mertz, MHA, FACHE, as New CEO
November 17, 2025
The Kaweah Health Board of Directors announced today that it has selected Marc Mertz, a strategic healthcare executive with national consulting expertise, as the organization’s new chief executive officer, effective Dec. 22, 2025. Mertz succeeds Gary Herbst, who previously announced his retirement as CEO.
Mertz, currently Kaweah Health’s Chief Strategy Officer, joined the organization in 2018. Prior to that, he served as vice president and physician services practice leader at GE Healthcare (formerly The Camden Group) in El Segundo, CA. He also held positions as president of Health Check Incorporated in Mexico Beach, FL, and vice president of The Horizon Group in Virginia Beach, VA.
The Board conducted a nationwide search that attracted dozens of highly qualified candidates. Following a rigorous screening process, the pool was narrowed to a select few finalists who participated in extensive interviews with the Board, the medical staff, executive team, and community members.
“We are excited for Marc to step into the position of CEO, bringing not only more than 20 years of experience outside our organization, but also a deep knowledge and understanding of Kaweah Health and our unique challenges,” Kaweah Health Board President Mike Olmos said. “Marc is the right person to guide Kaweah Health through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Mertz's consulting background in mergers and acquisitions, physician services growth, and system-wide strategy provides him with the expertise to navigate complex healthcare challenges. He has built critical partnerships at Kaweah Health with leading institutions including Cleveland Clinic and Valley Children's Hospital, bringing world-class resources to the community.
Mertz serves as the liaison for Kaweah Health to national, state, and local government officials. He also oversees the community engagement groups and patient experience team, which serve as sounding boards for the community.
“I’m honored to have the confidence of the Board to serve Kaweah Health as its new CEO,” Mertz said. “During my time here, I have witnessed firsthand the fantastic care we provide to our patients. I am proud of our legacy and accomplishments, and I look forward to working with our employees and our medical staff to reach new levels of high-quality, compassionate care for our community.”
Beyond his executive role, Mertz is deeply connected to the community as immediate past president of the Rotary Club of Visalia and a board member for the Visalia Chamber of Commerce, the Mineral King Preservation Society, and Riata Ranch International.
