UNC Lenoir Health Care will have a new CEO in March.

Jay Dennard was announced as the next leader and brings a wealth of experience. Dennard, a Georgia native, earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration at Georgia Southwestern State, Masters of Public Administration from Columbus State University, and Masters in Health Administration and Business Administration from Georgia State.

Dennard served as the administrator for the Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville, Ga. for the past 10 years and will be the next CEO after Gary Black stepped down in July.

In a press release, Dennard said “I look forward to working with the board of directors, medical staff, UNC Lenoir team and community to continue the good work being done at Lenoir. My wife and I are excited about moving to the area and getting to know the community.”

UNC Lenoir Health Care Marketing Coordinator Barbara Laroque said Dennard’s background is impressive and he’ll be a great asset to the organization.

“He’s got certification in several areas, including patient satisfaction,” Laroque said. “He’ll bring a level of expertise we haven’t had before, he’s very enthusiastic and excited to be a part of the community. He has a level of vitality that we’ll enjoy here.”