Manus Appointed as CEO of Hospital District
Kim Manus Becomes CEO of Newport Health and Hospital Services
Introduction to the New Leadership
At a regular meeting on January 30, Newport Health and Hospital Services announced the appointment of Kim Manus as the new CEO and Superintendent. A dedicated employee of the hospital district for many years, Manus brings valuable experience and knowledge to the role.
Background and Experience
Longstanding Career at Newport Hospital
Kim Manus has been a part of Public Hospital District No. 1 of Pend Oreille County since August 1986. Over the years, she has held several key positions within the organization. Initially serving as the Business Office Manager and Treasurer, she advanced to the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in 2001. With extensive experience in hospital administration, she possesses a deep understanding of the needs and expectations of the community regarding healthcare services.
Community Connection
Board chair Lynnette Elswick emphasized Manus’s long-standing ties to Pend Oreille County, highlighting her understanding of local healthcare needs. With a career spanning over three decades, Manus has witnessed significant growth in the hospital district and is enthusiastic about future opportunities for development.
Future Directions of Newport Health
Strategic Plan Implementation
In her new role, Manus will be focusing on enhancing the hospital’s services and facilities while fostering community engagement. Elswick stated that Manus will continue to execute the hospital district’s strategic plan. This plan emphasizes not only the enhancement of service lines but also the improvement of facilities and community outreach.
Commitment to Care Quality
The Newport Health and Hospital Services is committed to providing high-quality care. Manus’s leadership aims to align with this mission, ensuring that the healthcare provided meets the community’s requirements with integrity and excellence.
Compensation and Governance
Salary and Employment Structure
Kim Manus will be earning a base salary of $346,000 as she takes on the responsibilities of CEO. The hospital board approved this salary through a resolution. Notably, no fixed-term contract was established; instead, the resolution allows her to serve for an indefinite period, implying a long-term commitment to the organization.
Search for a Chief Financial Officer
In response to organizational needs following the recent leadership changes, the board plans to begin advertising for a new Chief Financial Officer this week. Since the departure of former CEO Merry-Ann Keane in August 2024, Manus has been juggling both CEO and CFO roles. The hospital district is eager to find someone who can focus solely on the financial aspects of the organization.
Context of Recent Leadership Changes
Transition from Previous Leadership
The last CEO, Merry-Ann Keane, was hired in October 2022 but resigned in 2024, well before her contract was set to expire at the end of 2025. Following her resignation, the hospital district provided Keane with a severance payment of $245,250 to settle ongoing disputes. She succeeded Tom Wilbur, who served as CEO from 2004 until his retirement in 2022.
Personal Insights About Kim Manus
Family and Hobbies
Outside of her professional life, Kim Manus is married to Mike Manus, a former Pend Oreille County Commissioner. Together, they have three stepdaughters, 12 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
In her free time, Manus enjoys outdoor activities like golfing, huckleberry picking, and boating. Additionally, she recently welcomed a new golden retriever puppy named River into her family, reflecting her love for animals and nature.
By appointing Kim Manus as CEO, Newport Health and Hospital Services is investing in a leader who is not only experienced and knowledgeable but also deeply connected to the community she serves.
