VWCH names Pope new president/CEO

VW independent/submitted information

Van Wert County Hospital has a new leader, with the hiring of a new president/CEO for the local healthcare facility.

The Van Wert County Hospital Association Board of Directors today announced James “Jim” Pope as the hospital’s new chief executive officer and president. Pope replaces Mark Minnick, who retired earlier this year after several decades of service.

Pope brings more than 30 years of executive experience to the hospital, with strengths in health operations, strategic leadership and planning, and rural healthcare markets. Pope will begin his new role on July 1.

After an extensive national search, the Board of Directors selected Pope, who best fits the candidate profile from the pool of candidates.

“The board, medical staff, and leadership are very pleased with Jim’s long-standing, successful career in healthcare administration,” said Gary Clay, hospital board chairman. “We are fortunate to have attracted Jim’s talents and 30 years of executive leadership experience.”

Pope will join Van Wert County Hospital following five years as CEO and president of Sylvania Franciscan Health, now CHI Sylvania Franciscan Health, a nonprofit health system in Sylvania. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Pope is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE).

“We believe Jim will be an asset to Van Wert County Hospital and will build upon the legacy of the organization that began over 110 years ago,” said Mike Holliday, the hospital’s chief financial officer. “Jim is a top health care executive here in the Midwest. We look forward to bringing his talent to our organization.”

Pope has a master’s degree in hospital and health administration from Xavier University and a Bachelor of Science degree in management/health care from Park University in Parkville, Missouri.

“I am honored to join the high caliber team at Van Wert County Hospital,” said Pope. “It’s obvious that the entire team is made up of dedicated employees and a board of directors who truly care about the hospital and the health care that is provided in the community.”

Pope and his wife, Mary, have been married for 33 years and have four adult sons, a daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters. The Popes will be moving to Van Wert at the end of the month.

Van Wert County Hospital will host an open house for the community to meet Pope on Tuesday, June 28, from 3-4:30 p.m., in the hospital’s Conference Room A.