HonorHealth names John Neil as next CEO

HonorHealth says CEO Todd LaPorte will step down in March 2027 after more than a decade leading the Arizona health system, with EVP John Neil set to take over. The planned transition is designed to preserve continuity as HonorHealth expands care access and prepares for its next phase of growth. Why it matters: - HonorHealth is planning a leadership handoff at the top of one of Arizona’s largest nonprofit health systems. - The transition is meant to keep strategy, operations and growth on track as the organization moves toward 2027. - The change comes after a period of expansion across HonorHealth’s network and services. What happened: - HonorHealth named John Neil, MD, MMM, as the successor to CEO Todd LaPorte. - Neil is the current executive vice president, chief physician executive and chief strategy officer. - Neil will become president immediately. - Neil will become CEO on March 1, 2027. - LaPorte will remain CEO until that date. - LaPorte will then serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO. - The announcement was made June 16, 2026. The details: - HonorHealth said LaPorte’s tenure was marked by growth, innovation and community-focused leadership. - Under LaPorte, HonorHealth expanded to more than 270 access points. - HonorHealth supported recovery and stabilized operations for distressed hospitals in the Valley. - HonorHealth said clinical excellence and patient quality outcomes improved during LaPorte’s tenure. - The health system also said financial performance and long-term sustainability strengthened. - HonorHealth Research Institute gained a higher national profile. - LaPorte led the organization through the global pandemic. - HonorHealth expanded community health initiatives, outreach and partnerships. - In his advisory role, LaPorte will focus on community impact, healthcare advocacy and key initiatives that benefit the organization and the broader healthcare landscape. - Neil has held a leadership role in physician integration, care delivery, strategic growth and workplace culture across the network. - Board Chair Mike Welborn said Neil has served the medical mission of the community for 27 years. Between the lines: - The board is signaling continuity rather than a reset. - Promoting an internal executive reduces transition risk and preserves institutional knowledge. - The delayed handoff gives HonorHealth nearly nine months to prepare staff, clinicians and external partners. - LaPorte’s advisor role suggests the board still values his relationships and operating experience after the CEO change. What’s next: - Neil will operate as president before taking the CEO title in March 2027. - LaPorte will continue leading until the transition date. - HonorHealth will likely use the interim period to align leadership, priorities and execution around the change. - The organization says the plan is intended to support long-term strategic planning and continued success. The bottom line: - HonorHealth is choosing a staged, internal succession to preserve momentum while preparing for a new CEO in 2027.