Blogs

March 22, 2012 - Forrest Whichard resignation

Mar 22, 2012 by Marc Strode, CEO
Folks,
It is with mixed emotions that I write you this evening to let you know that two days ago I accepted Forrest's resignation from his post as VVRMC CFO, a position he has held for nearly three years.  I am very happy to report that Forrest has accepted the CFO role at Ochsner Medical Center - North Shore, which is back in Forrest's stompin' ground of Louisiana.  And if the hospital sounds familiar to you, it should.  This is Polly's new hospital and affords the two the opportunity to reunite (darned that Polly!).  I am glad that Forrest gets to get back home near his children and his mother. 

North Shore is a hospital about the size of VVRMC, but a little bit higher in the acuity and complexity of services that they provide in Slidell, a suburb of New Orleans.  He will be overseeing the financial operations at a hospital that has a PICU and does open hearts, has hundreds of physicans on staff and multiple outreach clinics.  This is great for Forrest's career development.

We will have big shoes to fill.  Forrest joined VVRMC during the CHC era and helped lead the transition to our new managing partner, Methodist.  At the time VVRMC was wondering if it would make payroll for the month.  Now we cash flow regularly and are in the sound position to be able to reinvest in our people and our hospital, in large part due to the turn around that Forrest and his team in accounting and finance helped with. 

In addition to this, he's been a good guy to have around.  It's a rare talent when you can combine the mental wherewithal he possesses, which is common for those smart financial guys, but pair that up with his ability to connect to people and that's good stuff.  It's been great to see our CFO out rounding on patients and then come Employee Forum time so easily transition into the role of one of the Swamp Cousins! 

Forrest's last day will be April 17.  We are in the process already of beginning the search for his replacement.  There will be plenty of time between now and then to roast and toast.  Please join me in congratulating Forrest.  We will miss him around these parts.

P.S.  This is a double-whammy because Cindy goes to!  Not sure how he's lured momma from the nest but fact of the matter is we will not only be losing our CFO but one of our nursing experts as well.  Cindy, we will miss you, too.

Keep the Spirit,
Marc