MAY 21, 2024 – Northfield Hospital + Clinics’ CEO and President Steve Underdahl has announced that he will be retiring at the end of 2024 after eleven years of service at NH+C.
“I’m turning 65 this summer, and looking forward to the next chapter of my life,” Underdahl says.
NH+C will work with an executive search firm that specializes in healthcare. Board leaders expect to choose a new CEO by yearend.
NH+C is in a good position to make this transition now:
• The pandemic is behind us.
• Financial mitigation plans are in place. NH+C has a balanced budget set for 2024, a combination of cutting expenses and nurturing strategic growth. Results so far have been good: Operating income for first-quarter 2024 is stronger than 2023.
• There is a strong tier of NH+C leaders preparing for expanded roles.
• NH+C has a robust roster of physicians, providers, and staff.
• The multi-year transition of NH+C’s Electronic Health Records system is complete.
• NH+C has a strong and stable Board of Directors who are focused on the health of the organization and its strategic direction.
“Steve has provided strong and committed leadership through some dramatically challenging times in healthcare,” says Sarah Carlsen, Chair of NH+C’s Board of Directors. “We’re grateful for all the work he and his team have done to get NH+C to a stable position and poised for a smooth, successful transition.”
The Governance & Planning Committee of the Board of Directors will function as the executive search group, with NH+C’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jeff Meland, and a representative of the staff. NH+C’s full Board of Directors will make the final decision in selecting a new CEO.
Under Underdahl’s leadership, NH+C grew 60% in revenue, and expanded services across the region:
• Surgery Center expansion (2015)
• Birth Center expansion (2021)
• Wound Healing Center (2021)
• Urgent Care in Lakeville (2013) and Northfield (2022)
• Faribault Clinic expansion (2019)
• Kenyon Clinic (2021)
NH+C also launched and expanded key service lines during his tenure:
• OB and Midwifery
• Hospitalists
• Orthopedics
• General Surgery
• Cancer Care
“Steve’s leadership and vision have benefited NH+C and our community throughout his tenure here,” Carlsen said. “His talent for long-range strategy, coupled with an ability to respond quickly to meet unexpected challenges, has been a strong asset to NH+C.
“Steve ’s leadership at the state level has benefited hospitals across Minnesota,” Carlsen adds. “He has earned the respect and appreciation of those within this organization, and across the industry.”
NH+C congratulates Underdahl on his upcoming retirement.