Description
Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) seeks an accomplished and forward-thinking surgical leader to serve as its inaugural Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery.
NGHS is a not-for-profit integrated health system dedicated to improving the health and well-being of communities across Northeast Georgia. With nearly 1000 beds across five hospital campuses and a medical staff of over 1,400 representing more than 60 specialties, NGHS is recognized for its exceptional clinical quality and patient-centered care. The organization attracts highly skilled professionals who share a commitment to advancing health outcomes and fostering innovation across the region.
At the heart of NGHS’s clinical program is the Georgia Heart Institute (GHI), a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program encompassing the full spectrum of heart and vascular care. The Institute’s 134 physicians, surgeons, advanced practitioners, and nurses collaborate deeply across cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, and vascular surgery to provide seamless, evidence-based care. GHI is defined by a culture of interdependence, research, and innovation, with state-of-the-art technologies and a recently established cardiology fellowship program that reinforces its mission to deliver exceptional clinical care and train the next generation of cardiology leaders.
The Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery will provide operational, clinical, and quality leadership for all cardiothoracic surgery practices within Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) and across the NGHS system. Partnering closely with the Chief Physician Executive, Vice Presidents of NGPG and Medical Affairs, and the Administrative Directors, the Chief will oversee clinical services, drive alignment with NGHS’s mission, and ensure the delivery of high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective care. This leader will establish annual performance goals, uphold program-specific accreditation standards, and promote evidence-based best practices to enhance outcomes, safety, and patient satisfaction.
This role calls for a seasoned cardiac surgeon with demonstrated experience in leading and building high-performing programs and teams. The ideal candidate will be clinically skilled and possess credibility to set and enforce expectations while fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration. Strong strategic and operational acumen, particularly in programmatic development, quality and safety, and cultural alignment, is essential. The ability to manage diverse personalities, uphold fairness in block time and case posting, and ensure consistent quality will be critical to success.
Above all, the Chief must embody a balanced and compassionate leadership style, combining approachability and respect with clear expectations and accountability. This leader will strengthen collaboration across service lines, particularly with cardiology, anesthesia, and vascular surgery, recognizing cardiothoracic surgery as one essential component of a larger ecosystem. By elevating clinical excellence with operational rigor and team-based collaboration, the Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of heart care across Northeast Georgia.
For additional information, confidential inquiries, nominations, and expressions of interest please contact Wendy Kerschner via email at wkerschner@wittkieffer.com.
