Tennova Healthcare Announces Shane Watson as New Chief Executive Officer at Jefferson Memorial Hospital

6/30/2025

Tennova Healthcare has announced that Jefferson Memorial Hospital has appointed Shane Watson as its new chief executive officer. As CEO, Watson will oversee day to day operations for the Jefferson Memorial Hospital facility in Jefferson City, TN.

Watson most recently served as Chief Growth Officer for Southern Illinois Foundation Healthcare Federally Qualified Health Center network, overseeing 64 clinics across 39 locations and leading operational strategy that resulted in significant growth in patient encounters, quality incentive revenue, and the expansion of specialty services.

Prior to that role, he was Chief Executive Officer of Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City, Illinois, a 278-bed acute care hospital, where he drove increases in outpatient volumes, improved physician recruitment, and enhanced financial performance. Watson also served for over a decade as CEO of Red Bud Regional Hospital in Illinois, where he led numerous initiatives to expand access to care, improve clinical outcomes, and strengthen community relations. Watson holds a Master of Business Administration from Fontbonne University, a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

“Shane’s depth of experience and commitment to patient-centered care make him an excellent fit for Jefferson Memorial Hospital,” said Tony Benton, Market CEO for Tennova Healthcare. “We are confident his leadership will help guide the hospital into an exciting new chapter.”

"I’m excited to contribute to the future of healthcare at Jefferson Memorial Hospital," said Watson. "It’s an honor to join a team so committed to quality patient care, and I look forward to building on the hospital’s strong foundation to serve the Jefferson County community.”

For more information about Jefferson Memorial Hospital, please visit www.Tennova.com.

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