Novant Health CEO Carl Armato announces retirement, former NHRMC leader to take over

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Novant Health President and CEO Carl S. Armato will retire at the end of the year, with former New Hanover Regional Medical Center President and CEO John Gizdic stepping into the role on an interim basis.

The health system announced Tuesday, Nov. 10, that Armato will retire effective Dec. 31, 2026, ending nearly three decades with the organization.

Gizdic, who currently serves as Novant Health’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, will become president and interim CEO on Jan. 1, 2027.

The leadership change comes as Novant Health continues operating hospitals and medical facilities across southeastern North Carolina, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Novant Health Scotts Hill Medical Center.

Armato retiring after nearly three decades

Armato joined Novant Health in 1998 as vice president of finance and operations for its physician divisions in Charlotte and Winston-Salem.

He later held several leadership positions before becoming president and CEO in January 2012.

During his tenure, Novant Health expanded its operations across North Carolina and South Carolina, including the addition of New Hanover Regional Medical Center, East Cooper Medical Center, Hilton Head Medical Center, Coastal Carolina Hospital and Northern Regional Medical Center.

The health system also opened several facilities, including Novant Health Scotts Hill Medical Center.

According to Novant Health, the organization now operates 22 hospitals and approximately 900 locations across the Carolinas.

“Leading Novant Health has been one of the greatest privileges of my career, but what I am most proud of is the difference our remarkable team members make every day for our patients and communities,” Armato said.

“Healthcare has changed tremendously during my time as CEO, but our purpose has remained constant: to care for people when they need us most and to create a healthier future together. I am deeply grateful to the physicians, nurses and team members who have brought that purpose to life, and I have tremendous confidence in what they will accomplish next.”

Novant Health also reported significant financial growth during Armato’s leadership.

Operating revenue increased from approximately $3.5 billion in 2012 to nearly $12 billion in 2025, while net assets grew from approximately $2.2 billion to $8.2 billion.

The nonprofit health system reported more than $2.1 billion in community benefit in 2025.

Christine Katziff, chair of the Novant Health Board of Trustees, praised Armato’s leadership and contributions to the organization.

“Carl’s leadership has left an enduring mark on Novant Health and the communities we serve,” Katziff said.

Former NHRMC leader to become interim CEO

Gizdic has more than three decades of healthcare leadership experience, including more than 20 years with Novant Health and its predecessors.

He previously spent more than 15 years at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, where he held several leadership positions before becoming president and CEO in 2017.

He later became Novant Health’s executive vice president and chief administrative officer in 2021 and was named chief operating officer in May 2024.

In his current position, Gizdic oversees operational performance across Novant Health’s hospitals and medical group.

“I am deeply honored to serve as president and interim chief executive officer of Novant Health,” Gizdic said. “This organization has built an extraordinary foundation of clinical excellence, compassionate care and disciplined growth. I look forward to building on that foundation and working alongside our talented physicians, nurses and team members to continue advancing Our Cause and creating a healthier future for the communities we serve.”

Gizdic holds a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Health Administration from Pfeiffer University, along with a bachelor’s degree in health policy and administration from Pennsylvania State University.

What’s next for Novant Health?

The Novant Health Board of Trustees unanimously selected Gizdic to lead the organization during the transition.

“After thoughtful consideration, the board unanimously concluded that John Gizdic is the right person to lead Novant Health through this transition,” Katziff said.

Armato also expressed confidence in Gizdic’s leadership, citing his experience and understanding of the health system.

Novant Health has not announced a timeline for selecting a permanent CEO.

Armato will remain in his position through Dec. 31, with Gizdic assuming his new responsibilities Jan. 1, 2027.