Southern Coos Health District named Jim Wathen interim director of Southern Coos Hospital and Health Center in Bandon, Ore., following former CEO Charles Johnston's termination, according to a Brandon Western World report.
Here are five things to know:
1. Mr. Johnston, who had served as CEO since March 2013, was terminated "without cause," the Brandon Western World notes. Board members took into account Mr. Johnston's achievements; however, they were concerned about staff comments regarding his performance and leadership.
2. Mr. Wathen previously served as the Southern Coos Health District's CEO, and he was terminated in 2012 after 17 years in the role. He was fired "not for cause, but for convenience of the district," the report states.
3. At the time, board chairwoman Esther Williams voted to terminate Mr. Wathen's contract. However, she was one of three board members voting to re-hire Mr. Wathen now. The two remaining board members voted against the decision.
4. According to board member David Allen, who voted in favor of Mr. Wathen's re-hire, Mr. Wathen cares about the hospital and its employees and he "knows the territory."
5. Additionally, Mr. Wathen said at a board meeting that he does not want to apply for the CEO position permanently.