Robert C. Garrett

Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, serves as chief executive officer of Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey's largest health network, which includes 17 hospitals, 500 patient care locations, 34,000 team members, and 6,500 physicians. Garrett has more than 38 years of experience in the healthcare industry, focusing on healthcare leadership, hospital administration, and expanding access to high-quality care. He began his career at Hackensack Meridian University Medical Center, eventually becoming president and CEO. Following the merger of Hackensack University Health Network with Meridian Health, Garrett was appointed CEO of the newly formed network.

Under Garrett's direction, Hackensack Meridian Health has experienced significant institutional development. The network established the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, formed a partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and merged with New Jersey's largest behavioral health provider to improve access to addiction treatment and mental health services. Garrett also supported the creation of the Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation, which includes 180 scientists and manages $175 million in research commitments. He led the implementation of a comprehensive social determinants of health program, resulting in 1.4 million patient screenings and 4.5 million referrals.

Garrett's influence extends internationally. He was named chair of the World Economic Forum's Health and Healthcare Governor's Community, where he leads a committee of global CEOs and sets the agenda for the community. In this role, he has convened health ministers from the United States and Europe, as well as the head of the World Health Organization, to address issues such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, health equity, the impact of climate change on health, and value-based care. Garrett also signed the Zero Health Gaps Pledge in Davos, joining other leaders in committing to health equity and access to care.

Garrett has received national recognition for his contributions to healthcare innovation and leadership. He has been named to Modern Healthcare's list of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare and is the only health system CEO from New Jersey on the list. He was recognized as the top healthcare leader on ROI-NJ's Power List and received the Chairman's Award from the Research & Development Council of New Jersey for his impact on healthcare outcomes and medical innovation. Garrett also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from NJBIZ for his leadership and contributions to the healthcare industry. He is frequently invited to speak on topics such as health system transformation, healthcare innovation, and the future of healthcare delivery.