Seattle Children’s Hospital announced that the Board of Trustees has named Jeff Sperring, MD, Chief Executive Officer, effective early in May. Dr. Sperring, who currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, will continue to implement Seattle Children’s 2012-2016 Strategic Plan, with the goal of carrying out the hospital’s mission to prevent, treat, and eliminate pediatric disease.
Dr. Sperring has worked at Riley Hospital for Children since 2002. As Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, he provided pediatric strategic and policy oversight within the 18-hospital Indiana University Health system, and he developed the framework to transform Riley from a children’s hospital to a statewide children’s health system. He also managed the completion of the 750,000 square foot, $500 million Simon Family Tower, and implemented lean-based process improvement programs. Prior to taking the role of President and Chief Executive Officer, he served as Riley’s Chief Medical Officer, Associate Chief Medical Officer, and Director of Pediatric Hospital Medicine.
Passion and Dedication
“We are thrilled that Dr. Sperring is assuming the role of CEO,”said Judy Holder, Chair, Board of Trustees. “He brings tremendous experience leading a highly ranked, complex healthcare organization, and he exudes a clear passion and dedication to our mission at Seattle Children’s.”
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead one of the best children’s hospitals in the country,” said Dr. Sperring. “Seattle Children’s already has a tremendous track record, and I look forward to carrying the torch to help bolster its ability to develop cures for pediatric disease and provide the highest level of care to every child in need,” Dr. Sperring said.
Dr. Sperring obtained his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Emory University and his Doctor of Medicine from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. He was a pediatric resident at the Naval Medical Center San Diego. After residency, he served as a United States Navy Medical Corps officer in Twentynine Palms, California, for 3 years.
Former CEO to Retire
Dr. Sperring will replace current CEO Thomas N. Hansen, MD, who will retire in May after 10 years of service. Dr. Hansen is credited with growing Seattle Children’s Research Institute, opening a major outpatient and ambulatory surgery center in Bellevue, and overseeing the completion of the Building Hope expansion at the hospital. After stepping down as CEO, Dr. Hansen plans to remain an investigator at Seattle Children’s Research Institute.
Dr. Sperring will oversee Seattle Children’s Hospital, Research Institute, Hospital, and Research Foundation and Guild Association. ■
