BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Kaleida Health has named Robert J. Nesselbush chief executive officer (CEO), he will succeed Jody Lomeo who announced in January he would not renew his contract at the end of the year.
Nesselbush arrived at Kaleida Health in April 2019 after spending 24 years at Rochester Regional Health (RRH), he is currently Kaleida's chief financial officer.
“As I said back in January when Jody made his announcement, this is all about building on the success that we have had as an organization over the past six years,” said Frank Curci, chair of the Kaleida Health Board of Directors. “Today’s announcement is true succession planning. The board felt very strongly about keeping the team together; they have performed so well under Jody’s leadership. In particular, Bob and the executive management team really shined during the COVID-19 crisis. With Bob elevating to the CEO position, you get a results-oriented leader who has a proven track record in operations, improving quality, growing market share and managing financial operations.”
Nesselbush served in multiple roles during his time at RRH ultimately finishing his time there as the executive vice president and chief operating officer.
“It is a truly incredible honor to be asked to lead and serve this great health system of ours," said Nesselbush. "In my time in Rochester, I was fortunate enough to watch the growth and expansion that was underway at Kaleida Health. So when I had the chance to join the organization in 2019, I jumped at the opportunity.
"As a proud Western New Yorker, I am very excited about building upon the many successes that Kaleida Health has achieved over the last seven years.”
Lomeo praised the organization's decision.
“I am thrilled with today’s announcement," said Lomeo. "Many organizations talk about succession planning; we are living it. This is best-in-class governance and board leadership, and that is good for Kaleida Health and our community.
"Since he came into the organization, Bob has made a major and tangible impact. His skill set is very unique and diverse, being able to align strategy, operations, quality and finance. I am really happy that we will be able to work together moving forward to ensure a smooth transition.”
Kaleida will begin the search for a new chief financial officer in the coming months.
