Novant Health CEO Carl Armato Announces Retirement

Novant Health announced that President and CEO Carl S. Armato will retire on December 31, 2026. Armato has led the nonprofit health system since 2012, overseeing an expansion to 22 hospitals and approximately 900 locations across North and South Carolina. During his tenure, operating revenue grew from $3.5 billion in 2012 to nearly $12 billion by 2025, with assets reaching $8.2 billion.

John H. Gizdic, the current executive vice president and chief operating officer, was unanimously selected by the board to serve as president and interim CEO starting January 1, 2027. Gizdic previously served as president and CEO of New Hanover Regional Medical Center. The organization has not yet provided a timeline for selecting a permanent successor.

Armato's departure follows recent employee criticism regarding high executive compensation—with his 2024 salary approaching $7 million—and reductions in retirement benefits. Simultaneously, Novant Health is seeking state approval for a $1-billion expansion at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, facing competition from proposals submitted by Atrium and UNC Health.