New! Executive Search Placement

Cejka Search Is Pleased to Announce Mark Laney, MD as Heartland Health’s New Top Executive

Deedra Hartung, Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Executive Search Division, is pleased to announce that Heartland Health in St. Joseph, Missouri has selected Mark Laney, MD for the key leadership role of President and Chief Executive Officer. In his new position, Dr. Laney will provide the leadership essential to the continued development and success of the Heartland Health organization.

Bringing extensive experience to his new role, Dr. Laney formerly served as President of Cook Children’s Physician Network where he was responsible for forming one of the US’ largest pediatric multi-specialty practices and for developing more than 20 multi-specialty hospital-based programs. During his 15-year tenure, he created a positive partnership with Cook Children’s physicians by integrating them into strategic plans and decisions, authoring the Physician Compact, and creating multiple communication forums, all of which resulted in a 98 percent retention rate for employed physicians. He also was responsible for guiding Cook Children’s Medical Center to achieve recognition as one of the eight pediatric Leapfrog Hospitals (2007) in the nation, as well as for directing the network of Cook Children’s Neighborhood Clinics, which provide a medical home for low income families, timely access to acute and preventive care, health education advocacy and mental health services.

Deedra Hartung cites her engagement with the Heartland Health Search Committee and senior leadership as being fundamental to the successful placement of their new President and CEO. “Heartland Health is a dynamic and growing health system. It was a pleasure to work with the Board and dedicated Search Committee at Heartland Health,” Deedra explained. “Dr. Laney is an exemplary leader and I am confident he will make a significant positive impact at Heartland Health.”