Reno, Nev.-based Renown Health has expanded the leadership role of Chris Nicholas, CEO of Renown Regional Medical Center, to also serve as system chief operating officer, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
In his new dual role, Mr. Nicholas will oversee implementation of the health system’s strategic plan, including its transformation management office and master facility plan. He will also lead the accelerating care transformation team to support systemwide performance improvement and sustainability efforts.
“Chris has consistently demonstrated a passion for aligning performance with strategic goals, fostering effective communication, promoting collaboration, building strong physician partnerships, and achieving impactful results,” said Brian Erling, MD, president and CEO of Renown Health. “His leadership of Renown Regional Medical Center has driven innovative new programs to engage employees and physicians that have enhanced patient care and operational efficiency through clear goal setting, open communications, accountability and team building. Expanding his responsibilities to system COO allows us to bring that same disciplined operational focus and people-first approach across our entire health network.”
Mr. Nicholas previously served as vice president and administrator of Renown South Meadows Medical Center and the Institute for Neurosciences, and senior administrator of rehabilitation services and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. He is also the vice chair and board member of the Nevada Hospital Association and a state delegate for the regional policy board of the American Hospital Association.
Renown Health is in a transformational time after entering into a joint venture with Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente earlier this year for more integrated population health and value-based care.
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