Johnston Health names Tom Williams as CEO, following national search

Williams, a long-time UNC REX leader, became interim CEO in December

Johnston Health’s board has named Tom Williams as the organization’s new CEO. Williams was selected as interim CEO last year when CEO Chuck Elliott retired. The board conducted a national search for a permanent CEO.

“Tom Williams has done an outstanding job leading Johnston Health during the past few months, especially as we’ve navigated the coronavirus crisis,” said Dr. Eric Janis, a cardiologist and chairman of the Johnston Health board of directors. “His leadership skills and passion for excellent care will help strengthen our organization and our community.”

Williams is a long-time leader at UNC REX Healthcare in Raleigh, most recently serving as vice president of Ambulatory and Support Services and overseeing construction of a new community hospital in Holly Springs. In addition to experience and background in hospital administration, he is a registered respiratory therapist.

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

“Johnston Health and its dedicated employees do an incredible job meeting the needs of this community, now more than ever,” Williams said. “I’m honored to lead a team of people who are dedicated to delivering excellent care for all patients, regardless of the situation. The coronavirus crisis reinforced my belief that this organization is a model for safety and high quality.”

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.