Harbor Health Announces CEO Transition

Chuck Jones returning to Thundermist Health Center and John O’Hara appointed as Interim CEO

With deep gratitude for his service, we would like to share that Chuck Jones, president and CEO of Harbor Health, will step down to return to Thundermist Health Center in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. The Board of Directors has appointed John O’Hara as Interim CEO. He will assume his new role on December 2.

In the new year,  Board will a nationwide search for a permanent CEO.

CEO Chuck Jones is departing Harbor Health to return to Thundermist Health Center.

Chuck has led Harbor Health for the past 8 years. He has guided the organization’s five community health centers and Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in efforts to expand access to care and services. Harbor Health’s service area includes greater Boston, the South Shore, and Cape Cod.

“When I was offered the opportunity to join Harbor Health as CEO, I was inspired by the organization’s history,” Jones explained. “Drs. Jack Geiger and Count Gibson opened the first community health center in the country on Columbia Point –which is now Harbor Health’s Geiger Gibson Community Health Center. They understood the profound impact better access to healthcare could have on underserved communities. I am truly grateful to have been a part of moving that legacy forward.”

Harbor Health’s Board Chair Patrick Preston expressed the Board’s appreciation for Chuck’s leadership: “Chuck steered the organization towards opportunities and through challenges – not the least of which was the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board, the organization’s 600 plus staff members, and most importantly Harbor’s patients have all benefitted from his focus on providing exceptional care to everyone.”

Board Names Interim CEO John O’Hara

John O’Hara will serve as Interim CEO of Harbor Health.

Interim CEO John O’Hara has served on Harbor Health’s Board for the past two years, most recently as treasurer. He brings a deep background in healthcare to the role. Previously, he held leadership positions in teaching and community hospitals, an insurer, and a variety of multi-specialty physician organizations.

“I’ve been so impressed by the passion and professionalism of employees with whom I’ve talked during my board service and as I have been transitioning with Chuck,” John shared. “I am looking forward to having the opportunity to be a part of Harbor Health’s very important work.”