Johnston Health Names Tommy Williams as Interim CEO, Begins National Search

Williams, a long-time UNC REX leader, to fill top job when CEO Chuck Elliott retires in December

Johnston Health’s board has selected Tom Williams to take over as interim CEO when CEO Chuck Elliott retires in December. The board also will begin a national search for a permanent CEO.

“Tom Williams is a highly regarded health-care leader who will help Johnston Health continue to provide excellent care for all our patients, and reinforce our organization’s reputation as a top place to work,” said Dr. Eric Janis, chairman of the Johnston Health board of directors. “We look forward to introducing him to our community and organization.”

Williams is a long-time leader at UNC REX Healthcare in Raleigh, currently serving as vice president of Ambulatory and Support Services and overseeing construction of a new community hospital in Holly Springs. He will continue oversight of that project while serving as interim CEO at Johnston Health. In addition to experience and background in management, he is a registered respiratory therapist.

Williams grew up in Franklin County and still lives there with his family.

“I consider it a privilege and an honor to work with Johnston Health during this transition,” Williams said. “Johnston Health has a long history of delivering excellent care and has received national recognition for its patient safety and outstanding patient experience. I look forward to being a part of this culture of compassionate care and helping to continue to expand services in Johnston County.”

In early 2014, Johnston Health formed a joint venture with UNC Health Care, a partnership that has improved the health and wellness of residents of Johnston County and surrounding areas. That included opening a 50-bed community hospital on Johnston Health’s Clayton campus in 2015, and recruiting new physicians and other providers.