The start of the new fiscal year will mark the beginning of new leadership for Nebraska Medicine.
After more than 40 years in a variety of roles for Nebraska Medicine, UNMC and the University of Nebraska, Jim Linder, MD, will step down as CEO on Tuesday, July 1. Dr. Linder has held the CEO title since August 2018. The Nebraska Medicine Board of Directors unanimously chose Michael Ash, MD, to serve as the organization’s next CEO.
“Age 70 feels like a graceful time to step aside — creating space for a leader with a longer runway, while hopefully leaving me time to pursue interests outside of work,” Dr. Linder said. “A wise mentor once said that when people congratulate you on successful service, the best response is a simple ‘thank you.’ So, to all of you, I offer my deepest gratitude.”
Dr. Linder said he and the board have been working on succession planning for the last several years, and the clinical, business and leadership skills Dr. Ash brings to the role are the right fit at the right time. Currently, Dr. Ash serves as Nebraska Medicine’s president and chief operating officer.
“It is a profound honor to lead Nebraska Medicine, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity,” Dr. Ash said. “Every day, I am inspired by the dedication, compassion and excellence that radiate from each of our extraordinary colleagues. It is everyone’s unwavering commitment to delivering extraordinary care and living our ITEACH values that truly sets us apart.”
“I’m delighted that Dr. Ash has accepted the role of CEO,” Dr. Linder said. “He understands Nebraska Medicine, possesses exceptional health care knowledge and brings the right motivation to the role. Michael will empower you to do what’s best for patients.”
Dr. Ash expressed gratitude for Dr. Linder’s leadership, guidance and friendship throughout the years.
“Jim has been more than a CEO. He has been a mentor, an inspiration and a calm, confident presence through times of growth and change,” Dr. Ash said. “Jim’s innovative thinking and deep commitment to Nebraska Medicine are integral parts of the remarkable legacy he leaves. His generosity and profound sense of philanthropy reflect a genuine belief in the power of giving back to both our organization and the broader community.”
Prior to his 11 years with Nebraska Medicine and UNMC, Dr. Ash served as chief medical officer for the Cerner Corporation (now Oracle Health) and practiced as an internal medicine physician. He holds more than a dozen health care technology patents.
As part of this leadership transition, Kyle Skiermont, PharmD, who currently serves as Nebraska Medicine’s senior vice president of operations, will be promoted to chief operating officer on July 1.
“As Kyle steps into the role of chief operating officer, his strategic vision and operational expertise will be instrumental in guiding us forward,” Dr. Ash said. “His ability to drive progress across a broad and critical set of responsibilities speaks to his exceptional capability and deep commitment. He leads with integrity, fosters teamwork and consistently strives for excellence. We look forward to his continued impact and leadership in this next chapter.”
“I am grateful and honored to have this opportunity,” Dr. Skiermont said. “Nebraska Medicine and UNMC are such special places for me. The thousands of extraordinary people who transform lives each day never stop inspiring me. I am truly fortunate to be part of this team.”
This planned leadership transition allows Nebraska Medicine to build and strengthen its role as an essential resource for the communities it serves — through clinical care, health research and in educating future health care professionals.
Known as an innovator, Dr. Ash looks forward to partnering with colleagues across the organization, hearing new ideas and working together to build on his vision for Nebraska Medicine — one that builds on the organization’s ITEACH values and embraces the Nebraska Medicine mission.
Dr. Ash’s vision for Nebraska Medicine:
- World-class health care is a bold promise — to deliver high-quality, safe, compassionate and equitable care to all.
- World-class health care means zero harm, personalized care and the right team in the optimal environment. Powered by operational excellence, digital innovation and artificial intelligence, it’s care that doesn’t just treat illness — it transforms lives.
“I am confident that, together, we will continue to advance our mission and transform the lives of the communities we so proudly serve,” Dr. Ash said.
Congrats to Drs. Linder and Ash! Nebraska Medicine will continue to be in very good hands. Job well done.
Congratulations Drs. Ash and Skiermont! Many thanks to Dr. Linder!
Congratulations and huge thank you to Drs. Linder and Ash for your service and very well thought-of transition plan. NM/UNMC and all of us are fortunate to have such dedicated and strong physician leaders. We are better because of you.