Communications Director, Connecticut Hospital Association
110 Barnes Road, Wallingford, CT
rall@chime.org, 203-265-7611
Hartford Business Journal – Friday, March 7, 2025
By David Krechevsky
James E. Shmerling, president and CEO of Connecticut Children’s Medical Center (CCMC) in Hartford, plans to retire at the end of the year after a decade at the helm, officials announced Friday.
Since joining CCMC in 2015, Shmerling’s tenure has led the organization’s transformation from a standalone medical center to a leading pediatric health system across three states. Under his leadership, CCMC has expanded its neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) network, formed alliances with adult health systems, launched initiatives in population health, started new programs and services and significantly increased access to specialized pediatric care, the hospital said.
He’s current leading CT Children’s through a major campus expansion plan.
“Connecticut Children’s is stronger than ever, thanks to the dedication of our incredible team,” Shmerling said. “When I started, we needed to build scale to truly thrive, and together, we’ve done just that.”
“Jim’s leadership has positioned Connecticut Children’s as a national leader in pediatric healthcare,” said Jon Rubin, chair of CMCC’s board of directors. “His vision, dedication, and strategic foresight have ensured that children and families across our region have access to the very best care.”
The board said it will lead the search for the next CEO. Shmerling will remain in his role until the end of the year to support “a thoughtful and strategic handover.”