Thomas Klemond, MD, stepped down Jan. 13 as interim CEO of Minneapolis-based Hennepin Healthcare, according to a statement shared with Becker’s.
Dr. Klemond became interim CEO in April 2025, shortly after Jennifer DeCubellis announced her departure from the role. During his tenure, the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners voted in August 2025 to dissolve the previous hospital board and assume direct oversight of the health system amid financial difficulties.
“We appreciate Dr. Klemond’s dedication during this critical period,” Hennepin County Commissioner Jeffrey Lunde said in the statement. “As we move forward, the board recognizes the urgency of taking decisive action to stabilize our operations and enhance efficiencies, ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional care to our community.” Mr. Lunde is also serving as chair of the Hennepin Healthcare board.
J. Kevin Croston, MD, former CEO of Robbinsdale, Minn.-based North Memorial Health, and former Hennepin County Administrator David Hough — who had been co-leading Hennepin Healthcare’s stabilization efforts — have been appointed co-interim administrators, the board said. A permanent CEO search is expected to begin later in 2026.
“The Hennepin Healthcare board extends its appreciation to Dr. Thomas Klemond for his service as interim CEO of Hennepin Healthcare,” the statement reads. “Dr. Klemond stepped into this leadership role during a time of significant transition and challenge in the healthcare industry with a deep commitment to the mission of Hennepin Healthcare. We thank him for his commitment to the organization and wish him the very best in his continued service to our community.”
The board emphasized its commitment to values that define Hennepin Healthcare — equity, access and excellence — and noted the organization’s ongoing role as Minnesota’s largest safety-net hospital.
Hennepin Healthcare includes Hennepin County Medical Center, a 484-bed academic medical center, an outpatient clinic and specialty center, and a network of clinics, according to its website.
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