Robert (Bob) Hemker, president and CEO of Escondido, Calif.-based Palomar Health, is retiring after nearly two decades with the organization.
In a news release, Palomar Health said the retirement decision is so Mr. Hemker can spend more time with his family.
"The board of directors is deeply grateful for Bob's leadership of our organization," said Palomar Health Board of Directors Chair Dara Czerwonka. "His life and career have been guided by his compassion and caring for others."
Mr. Hemker first joined Palomar Health in May 2001 as CFO and had a stint as interim president and CEO while in that role. He was named president and CEO in 2014.
Diane Hansen, who has been executive vice president of finance at Palomar Health, will now serve as interim president and CEO as the organization conducts a national executive search for a permanent leader.