John M. Starcher, Jr

President & CEO Member, Board of Directors

Leading with Purpose: Meet John

John M. Starcher, Jr. is an accomplished leader with extensive experience in the health care industry, currently serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of Bon Secours Mercy Health, one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit health systems and the fifth largest Catholic Health system in the U.S. Since 2018, he has been at the forefront of innovative initiatives that strive to deliver efficient and effective health care in more than 14 million patient encounters annually across seven states and two countries.  

As the largest employer in many of the states where it operates, John has grown Bon Secours Mercy Health to generate $13 billion annually in net operating revenue through 50 acute care hospitals and more than 1,200 sites of care. Additionally, the health system contributes more than $500 million each year to benefit the communities it serves. 

Under his leadership, Bon Secours Mercy Health has strategically expanded its diversified B2B portfolio of companies — including Conduit Health Partners, Advantus Health Partners and comprehensive Occupational Health Services — setting a benchmark in the industry through innovative care models, digital technology integration and strategic partnerships that enhance health care delivery and drive operational growth. 

His strategic vision emphasizes the importance of collaboration between business and government leaders to navigate the complexities of the health care environment. With a robust background that includes previous roles as CEO of Mercy Health and Health Management Associates, John has consistently demonstrated his business acumen by driving operational excellence and strong performance in large hospital systems. His commitment to innovation is aimed at simplifying health care access for consumers with integrated strategies and policies that align providers, payers and others responsible for the delivery of health care.  

John holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Bowling Green State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Toledo. His dedication to fostering understanding and cooperation in health care is evident through his service on numerous boards, reinforcing his belief that a united approach is essential for ensuring the health care system continues to meet the dynamic and evolving needs of patients and consumers.  

John is a director on the boards of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Catholic Health Association, Ensemble Health Partners and Pediatrix, Inc. 

Vision & Passion 
We are cutting edge, and we will continue to push the envelope in our ability to move with nimbleness and accomplish things that are unique — not just unique for health care. We’re not here to coast or to maintain the status quo. We’re here to break the rules and to do something for the betterment of the common good.  

Education & Training 

  • Juris Doctorate — The University of Toledo College of Law 
  • Bachelor of Business Administration — Bowling Green State University  

Career Achievements 

  • Actively served as a director on more than 25 boards 
  • Championed Bon Secours Mercy Health community health programs, including affordable housing investments designed to address health disparities  
  • Named to Modern Healthcare’s 2024 list of “100 Most Influential People in Healthcare”  
  • Guided Health Management Associates through its successful 2014 sale to Community Health Systems 
  • Offered the 2019 commencement speech at Bowling Green State University  
  • Named 2018 Distinguished Alumnus by The University of Toledo College of Law 

From the Blog 

What Bon Secours Mercy CEO says ‘dooms’ partnerships to failure 

Becker’s Hospital Review