CHARLESTON, W.Va.— West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources Cabinet Secretary Karen L. Bowling today appointed Craig Richards as Chief Executive Officer of Mildred Mitchell-Bateman Hospital, effective November 16, 2013.
"I am confident Craig’s leadership abilities will prove to be successful for the patients and the team of employees of Mildred Mitchell-Bateman Hospital," Bowling said. "His financial background, combined with his continued pursuit of education in many health related areas, gives him a well-rounded skill set that will greatly benefit the hospital."
Richards currently serves as the Deputy Commissioner for Finance and Administration for the West Virginia Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities. He has more than 19 years of experience within the WVDHHR, serving in many different capacities during this time.
"Having worked as the Deputy Commissioner, I am familiar with the Hospital, the management team and many of the employees," Richards said. "I believe I will be able to work collaboratively with each to establish Bateman Hospital as a recognized behavioral health facility."
Richards holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from West Virginia University.
He replaces Pat Franz who has served as interim since September 2013.