South North Carolina News

The Columbus Regional Health Board of Trustees has announced that Steve Baker will take over as President and Chief Executive Officer on April 1, 2025. This follows the retirement of current CEO Jim Bickel, who will step down on March 31, 2025.

Baker has been serving as President and Chief Operating Officer at Columbus Regional Health since August 2024. Board Chair Don Michael expressed confidence in Baker's leadership, stating, “On behalf of the Trustees, and the entire Columbus Regional Health organization, we are pleased that Steve Baker will become President & CEO, upon Jim Bickel’s retirement.” He added that Baker's dedication to exemplary care and service makes him an excellent choice for leading the organization into a strong future.

Baker brings with him two decades of experience at Columbus Regional Health in various roles such as Chief Information and Technology Officer, Chief Administrative Officer, and Chief Operating Officer. Before joining CRH, he served nearly ten years in the United States Air Force.

Originally from Indiana, Baker moved to Columbus in 1998 and started his career at CRH as Director of Information Services. After exploring career opportunities outside Indiana between 2010 and 2016, he returned to CRH. In addition to his role at CRH, Baker is involved with the Heritage Fund Community Foundation Board and Ascension Rural Healthcare Board.

Jim Bickel announced his retirement plans in July 2024 after dedicating more than 34 years to Columbus Regional Health. Even after stepping down from his CEO position, Bickel will continue contributing part-time as a strategy advisor for the remainder of 2025.

Don Michael commented on Bickel's departure: “We are elated to celebrate Mr. Bickel in his retirement, and of course, so grateful for his more than 34 years of service to CRH and the community.” He also noted that trustees look forward to working with Bickel in his new advisory capacity.