Phoenix Children’s names John R. Nickens IV as its new President and CEO as Robert L. Meyer retires
John R. Nickens IV
Phoenix Children's, which provides a pediatric healthcare system, has announced the appointment of John R. Nickens IV as its new President and CEO, following the retirement of President and CEO Robert L. Meyer.
Nickens is expected to assume leadership by October 1 2025, bringing a proven track record of expertise in academic medical partnerships. He is currently serving as Corporate President of Hospitals and CEO at University Medical Center for LCMC Health in New Orleans.
Meyer has led Phoenix Children’s for more than 23 years and grew the organization from a hospital-within-a-hospital into a nationally recognized health system with more than 8,000 employees.
"Leading Phoenix Children's has been the honor of my lifetime," Meyer comment. "Together, alongside our clinical teams, leaders, partners and donors, we've built something truly special for our community. I've had the privilege of knowing and working alongside John in pediatric healthcare, and I am confident that he is the right person to lead Phoenix Children's into its next chapter."
"Phoenix Children's is one of the nation's premier pediatric health systems and I'm looking forward to amplifying the culture of excellence that Bob and his leadership team have built. I'm also eager to broaden the health system's academic partnerships as we collaborate to train the next generation of clinicians our country needs," adds Nickens.
"What ultimately drew my family and me to this incredible opportunity, and what has been at the heart of my career, are the kids. Kids who deserve their own specialized care, customized therapies and champions. Phoenix Children's is that champion, and I'm proud to be a part of its future."
Nickens and Meyer are expected to work together through a transition period in September 2025 to ensure continuity.
