Henderson, Texas (September 27, 2024) — Jared Smith has been named chief executive officer for UT Health Henderson and UT Health Carthage, effective Oct. 13.
Jared has been instrumental in the growth and development of UT Health Quitman since he started there as CEO in December 2020. He worked to improve quality of care and patient experience, while also increasing access to care.
Before starting with UT Health, Jared spent six years with Community Health Systems in Indiana, departing as assistant chief executive officer after having served in a variety of roles leading clinical and non-clinical teams, overseeing construction projects, and improving operational efficiencies along with many other responsibilities.
Jared earned his bachelor’s degree in health service administration from Clemson University and his master’s degree in health administration from The University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Jared will replace Mark Leitner, who is retiring after almost two decades of dedicated service to the health system. Leitner announced his retirement earlier this year, but graciously agreed to stay on and assist in the CEO selection process and ensure a smooth transition. A community retirement celebration is being planned for Leitner with details to be released soon.
Guy Cayo will serve on an interim basis as administrator for UT Health Quitman while retaining his role as CEO at UT Health Pittsburg. Before assuming the Pittsburg CEO position in March 2021, Guy spent the majority of his career at Kindred Hospital systems. Guy earned his bachelor’s degree in business management and his master’s degree in health administration from Florida International University in Miami.