Dr. Paul Krakovitz, Cone Health CEO
Cone Health has appointed Dr. Paul Krakovitz as its new chief executive officer, effective March 16, 2026. The announcement comes following a comprehensive nationwide search to find a transformative leader for the regional health system based in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Dr. Krakovitz brings over two decades of experience in healthcare leadership, having previously served as the president of the Desert Region for Intermountain Health. In that role, he expanded the region to encompass three acute hospitals, over 130 care sites, and a workforce of 8,500 caregivers, including 1,000 employed physicians and advanced practice providers. His prior experience also includes significant roles at the Cleveland Clinic, where he was vice chairman of surgical operations and chief of pediatric otolaryngology.
Most recently, Dr. Krakovitz was an executive-in-residence at Cressey & Company, a firm focused on advancing the United States healthcare system. He is also a practicing pediatric otolaryngology physician at the University of Utah, specializing in ear, nose, and throat disorders in children.
Leadership Vision and Commitment
Dr. Krakovitz expressed enthusiasm about joining Cone Health, stating, “With a proud history and a clear vision for the future, Cone Health stands at the intersection of care and community. It’s a place where mission and culture come together in meaningful ways.” He emphasized his commitment to building on the health system’s legacy and enhancing its transformational journey in value-based care.
Dr. Yun Boylston, chair of the Cone Health Board of Trustees, praised Dr. Krakovitz’s mission-driven approach. “The Board is delighted to welcome him to the role of CEO at Cone Health. We look forward to the transformational leadership and compassion he will bring to our patients, communities, providers, and team members,” Boylston stated.
Dr. Jaewon Ryu, CEO of Risant Health, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Dr. Krakovitz’s potential to guide Cone Health into its next chapter. “Dr. Krakovitz is a thoughtful, mission-driven leader, and I’m confident he will guide Cone Health into its next chapter with passion and vision,” Ryu remarked.
Continuity During Transition
In the interim, Bernie Sherry, who has served as the interim chief executive officer since June 1, 2025, will continue in this role until Dr. Krakovitz officially begins in March.
Cone Health operates 150 physician practices, including both primary and specialty care, and comprises five hospitals and six ambulatory care centers throughout the North Carolina Piedmont. The health system is recognized as a national leader in value-based care and holds the distinction of being ranked #1 in the Greensboro/Winston-Salem metro area by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, Cone Health has achieved the Family Forward NC certification® and has been recognized as one of the top 100 Best Employers for Diversity by Forbes.
As Dr. Krakovitz prepares to take the helm, he aims to ensure that Cone Health remains vibrant and deeply connected to the communities it serves.
