Scott Raynes, MBA, M.A., has joined Southeast Georgia Health System as its president and chief executive officer (CEO), effective January 10.

Raynes succeeds Michael D. Scherneck, who retired on January 7, 2022, after 18 years with the Health System, the last six as its president and CEO.

“Working closely with Gallagher Executive Search and Leadership Advisors, we conducted a national search and reviewed more than 90 candidates for the CEO position,” said Kay Hampton, R.N., MSN, chair, Southeast Georgia Health System, Inc. “We were extremely pleased and impressed with the quality of the applicants interested in leading our organization. Scott possesses a wealth of hospital experience, from strategic planning and operational oversight to patient-focused care and employee satisfaction. The board members, medical staff and leadership team participating in the selection process concluded that Scott was the best-qualified candidate for our Health System, team members and community.”

When asked what attracted him to apply for the position, Raynes stated, “Southeast Georgia Health System is a great organization that is positioned to meet the growing health care needs of the community. The team members, medical staff, and board are all committed to providing excellent care and improving the quality of life to those who entrust us with their health care. Couple all of the above with a healthy culture, a commitment to mission, vision and values, the wonderful hospitality of the people of southeast Georgia and the beauty of the area, you have a phenomenal organization that I am humbled and honored to be a part of.”

Raised in West Virginia, Raynes earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from West Virginia Institute of Technology, his master’s degree in business administration with a specialization in health care from West Virginia University, and a master’s degree in higher education and counseling from Morehead State University.

Prior to joining the Health System, Raynes served as president of Baptist Hospitals, Inc. and executive vice president of Baptist Healthcare Corp in Pensacola, Florida. During his tenure, he led northwest Florida and south Alabama’s largest health system which includes five hospitals and residency and fellowship programs in orthopaedics, internal medicine, primary care, sports medicine, cardiology and anesthesia. The system is a national leader in patient satisfaction with over half of the hospitals in the U.S. visiting for advice and consultation.

Raynes and his wife, Shawnna, have two daughters, Delaney, a first year medical student, and Ella, a high school senior. “Shawnna and I are excited to be in the Golden Isles and look forward to becoming integral members of the community.”

Raynes is a past president of the Tennessee Hospital Association and a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He has served on many local boards of directors and held several volunteer roles in communities where he has lived.