William Thompson, president and CEO of SSM Health, announced he will retire next year after more than 36 years with the healthcare system.
Thompson's replacement has not yet been chosen. He will remain in his role until a successor is named, according to a news release.
Thompson, 65, has been at the helm of the St. Louis-based Catholic health system since 2011. He led the 20-hospital system through multiple acquisitions, including its purchase of St. Louis University Hospital in September 2015 .
Thompson held multiple executive leadership positions at SSM Health, including COO and senior VP of strategic development. Thompson previously was executive director of St. Mary's Hospital in Kansas City, Mo.
Under his leadership, revenue at SSM Health grew by nearly $2 billion to $5.4 billion in 2015. SSM Health reported $2.9 billion in revenue in 2011.
