Longtime Iowa Healthcare Leader Robert ritz Announces Retirement from MercyOne
Robert (Bob) Ritz, the guiding force behind the significant expansion and evolution of MercyOne, has announced his upcoming retirement, effective January 2, 2026. His departure marks the end of a remarkable 40-year career in healthcare leadership. Ritz’s tenure has been defined by strategic growth, navigating complex transitions, and a steadfast commitment to patient care across Iowa.
Ritz initially joined what was then Mercy Des Moines Hospital in 2013 as its president. He quickly demonstrated a talent for leadership and a vision for a stronger, more integrated healthcare system. Subsequently, in 2017, he was appointed CEO of Mercy Health Network. This network later underwent a rebranding to become the now-familiar MercyOne, a collaborative venture co-owned by CommonSpirit Health and Trinity Health.
Throughout his leadership, Ritz spearheaded several pivotal moments for the association. He successfully guided the system through a full ownership transfer to Trinity Health in 2022. Concurrently, he oversaw the acquisition of Genesis Health System, now MercyOne Genesis, located in the Quad Cities.
This strategic expansion solidified mercyone’s position as one of the largest hospital systems in Iowa. Today, it encompasses 40 owned and affiliated hospitals, alongside a vast network of clinics. The system now serves over 4 million patients annually, supported by a dedicated team of physicians and healthcare professionals.
Ritz’s leadership extended beyond traditional healthcare operations. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he proactively forged a partnership with Corteva Agriscience. This collaboration leveraged the company’s laboratory technology to dramatically expand COVID-19 testing capacity for MercyOne patients and the broader community. This innovative approach substantially increased testing volume and processing speed.
“Health care is the moast astonishing profession, and I am so grateful to have seen so many trusted colleagues and physicians provide such compassionate care every day of my career,” Ritz shared in a statement. “I can think of no better place to end my 40 years in health care leadership than here at MercyOne, still embracing our mission to be a healing presence in our communities.”
Now, Ritz looks forward to dedicating more time to his family, especially his grandchildren, and pursuing travel opportunities. Trinity Health has initiated a search for his successor, aiming to identify a leader who will continue to champion MercyOne’s mission and build upon its legacy of excellence.
Key Highlights of Ritz’s Leadership:
* Significant Growth: Expanded MercyOne to become one of iowa’s largest hospital systems with 40 facilities.
* Strategic Acquisitions: Successfully integrated genesis Health System into the MercyOne network.
* Pandemic Response: Developed innovative testing solutions through a partnership with Corteva Agriscience.
* Patient Focus: Maintained a commitment to compassionate care and community health.
* System Transformation: Navigated complex ownership transitions and rebranding efforts.
This transition represents a new chapter for mercyone, built upon a strong foundation of leadership and a dedication to serving the healthcare needs of Iowans.
