Nashville General Hospital (NGH) has officially launched the search for a new ‘chief executive officer’ following the resignation of Dr. Joseph Webb, whose departure came on the heels of a scathing audit revealing financial mismanagement and policy violations under his leadership.
The hospital announced the release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to hire an executive search firm to lead a national recruitment for the next CEO. The solicitation (RFQ396518) is now available at <purchasing.nashville.gov>. The chosen firm will assist the Hospital Authority’s CEO Search Committee in identifying candidates with a strong commitment to equity, accountability, and public service.
“This is a pivotal moment for Nashville General,” said Mayor Freddie O’Connell. “We are looking for a leader who understands the responsibility and opportunity of running a safety-net hospital, and who will serve all Nashvillians with compassion, innovation, and accountability.”
The RFP outlines a broad scope of work, including community and stakeholder engagement, equitable screening, national outreach, and on-boarding. Proposals will be evaluated based on methodology, experience, qualifications, and cost.
Dr. Raymond Martin, chair of the Hospital Authority Board, emphasized the importance of public trust during the transition. “The next CEO must be more than a skilled administrator. They must be a trusted collaborator who can lead in service to our city,” Martin said.
The CEO search process was expedited following a series of events that began with a February 2024 internal audit conducted by the Metro Office of Internal Audit. The report identified nearly $4.6 million in unapproved contracts, falsified documents, and unauthorized use of hospital resources. Although no criminal charges have been filed, the findings were forwarded to appropriate legal authorities.
Shortly after the audit’s release, Dr. Webb submitted his resignation, effective March 14, avoiding a full vote from the Hospital Authority Board on his leadership. In his resignation statement, Dr. Webb pointed to accomplishments during his tenure, including launching The Food Pharmacy, expanding access to care, and earning top quality ratings from national hospital watchdogs.
Public response to Webb’s departure has been mixed. While some praised his decade-long tenure and commitment to underserved populations, others, including former hospital foundation leaders and union representatives, accused him of fostering a toxic work environment and weakening ties with Meharry Medical College, NGH’s teaching partner.
To manage the hospital during the interim period, the board appointed Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Elders as acting manager. “I feel like she will be a great collaborator,” said Board Vice Chair Christy Smith. Additionally, Mayor O’Connell appointed Dr. Chike Nzerue, a nephrologist and Meharry faculty member, to the Hospital Authority Board—addressing longstanding calls for Meharry representation in NGH leadership.
The search for a permanent CEO is expected to take two to three months. In the meantime, hospital and city officials are working to restore stability and rebuild trust with stakeholders. “I look forward to a relationship of mutual trust that will ensure high-quality care for all Nashvillians,” said Dr. James E.K. Hildreth, president of Meharry Medical College.
For more information on the RFP or submission guidelines, interested firms can contact Sandra Walker at <Sandra.Walker@nashville.gov>.
