Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – After a national search over the past six months, the Springfield Clinic Board of Directors has announced its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Rebecca Birenbaum, JD, MBA.

Birenbaum becomes the eighth CEO in the Clinic’s 86-year history starting March 16.

Birenbaum takes over for Jen Boyer who was appointed acting CEO in December 2024 following Ray Williams’ retirement. Boyer, who will transition to Chief Operating Officer, brought three decades of distinguished leadership and a steadfast commitment to patient-centered care.

“Jen’s exceptional operational expertise, financial insight and unwavering dedication have been pivotal in guiding the Clinic through a period of transition. The Board extends its sincere appreciation for her impactful contributions, which have established a strong foundation for continued excellence and future growth,” said Chris Wottowa, MD, Chairman of the Board.

Over the past seven years, Birenbaum has served as Chief Operating Officer at Vancouver Clinic, the largest independent, physician-owned multispecialty medical practice group in the northwest. With more than 580 clinicians, 2,000 employees and 20 locations, it is a highly successful organization with many similarities to Springfield Clinic.

“Rebecca is a collaborative and strategic leader dedicated to high-quality, community-based health care,” said Dr. Wottowa. “She brings a proven record in strategic planning, physician engagement and team building, with a leadership style that is both patient-focused and accountable.”

Birenbaum is an accomplished executive health care leader with more than 25 years of experience in operations and human resources management. She received her Juris Doctorate from Lewis & Clark Law School, her Master of Business Administration from American University and her Bachelor of Arts from Earlham College.

“I look forward to serving as Springfield Clinic’s next CEO and partnering to lead a physician-owned organization dedicated to clinical excellence, remaining independent and caring for its employees, clinicians and the community,” Birenbaum shared.  “Springfield Clinic is poised to navigate the challenging health care arena and continue its commitment to improving health outcomes and providing exceptional value to those we care for.”

To learn more about the Springfield Clinic Executive team and Board of Directors visit: https://www.springfieldclinic.com/about-springfield–clinic