Ray Williams to Retire as CEO of Springfield Clinic; Jen Boyer Appointed Acting CEO

 

[December 12, 2024]  Springfield, Ill. – Springfield Clinic today announced the upcoming retirement of CEO Ray Williams, effective Dec. 31, 2024. Williams has served as CEO for eight years, guiding the organization through significant growth, innovation and a steadfast commitment to providing exceptional care to the community.

“Making the decision to retire was not easy, but my family must come first at this stage of life,” Williams said. “It has been an incredible honor to serve as Springfield Clinic’s CEO, working alongside such talented and dedicated physicians and professionals. Together, we’ve built a stronger organization, and I’m confident that Springfield Clinic is well-positioned for a bright future.”

During his eight-year tenure, Williams oversaw key milestones that shaped Springfield Clinic’s future, including its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the resolution of a major insurance dispute with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and the successful implementation of a new electronic health record.

In preparation for this transition, Springfield Clinic has named Jen Boyer as Acting CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2025. Boyer, who was recently promoted to Chief Operating Officer, brings over 27 years of health care experience, including more than a decade with Springfield Clinic.

“I am deeply honored to take on this role during such an important time for Springfield Clinic,” Boyer said. “Ray’s leadership has been inspiring, and I will continue to build on his vision while ensuring our patients receive the exceptional care they expect and deserve.”

Boyer’s journey in health care began as a volunteer at a local hospital during her school years and evolved into a career that has included work in public health and emergency room leadership. Since joining Springfield Clinic in 2012 as a nurse navigator, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to patient advocacy and operational excellence, rising to the role of Senior Vice President of Operations before her current appointment.

Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, adaptability and a patient-first approach, aligning seamlessly with Springfield Clinic’s mission and physician-owned model.

Springfield Clinic’s Board of Directors will conduct a national search for a permanent CEO in the coming months. During this period, Boyer will work closely with the leadership team to ensure continuity and maintain the organization’s momentum. Springfield Clinic expresses its deepest gratitude to Ray Williams for his visionary leadership and countless contributions.

[Text received from Justin L. Fowler]