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BJC Health System today announced that CEO Rich Liekweg will retire effective October 1, 2025, concluding an extraordinary career spanning almost 40 years in health care — the last 16 of which were devoted to BJC Health System, headquartered in St. Louis.
“It has been an honor to serve and lead our team members these past 16 years as they deliver exceptional care to our patients and communities,” said Liekweg. “Together, we successfully navigated through unprecedented times in the industry, never losing sight of our singular purpose to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve.
Following a comprehensive succession planning process, the BJC Health System Board of Directors has appointed Nick Barto, current BJC Health System president, to succeed Liekweg as president and CEO effective October 1.
Greater St. Louis, Inc. Interim CEO Dustin Allison issued today the following statement regarding the announcement of the retirement of BJC Health System CEO Rich Liekweg:
“Our congratulations to Rich Liekweg on the culmination of a 40-year career signified by leadership, dedication, and action to improve the lives of others.
“His leadership of BJC Health System has grown it into one of the country’s leading health systems and one of the St. Louis region’s largest employers and biggest economic drivers. At a critical time of community need, Rich partnered with other health systems to lead the St. Louis Regional Pandemic Task Force, which has become a model for teamwork in a time of crisis.
“As a member of the Greater St. Louis, Inc. Board of Directors, Rich has used his voice to help drive inclusive growth and advance collaboration across the region.
“While we will miss Rich’s leadership and commitment, we are excited for him as he enters this next chapter.”
Tony Wyche | 314-398-9991 | Tony@GreaterSTLinc.com