New CEO named for Penn Medicine Princeton Health

The University of Pennsylvania Health System has named James Demetriades to serve as the new CEO of Penn Medicine Princeton Health. He will begin his new role on March 1, succeeding Barry Rabner, who has served as president and CEO since 2002.

Demetriades has worked for Penn Medicine Princeton Health for 17 years and currently serves as senior vice president and chief operating officer. University of Pennsylvania Health System leaders said he has been a key player in some of Princeton Health’s most important milestones over the past several years, included joining the University of Pennsylvania Health System.

“James is a proven leader who we are excited to elevate into a role in which he will help chart and execute Penn Medicine Princeton Health’s journey forward as an institution that sets the highest standards in care for patients and the community in New Jersey,” said University of Pennsylvania Health System CEO Kevin Mahoney in a written statement.  

Demetriades led planning efforts for the hospital to become part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, and helped develop a five-year strategic plan for 2020-2025 for Princeton Health. He also provides leadership for emergency management at Princeton Health, including the work done throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The knowledge and experience James brings to this role will be invaluable as he leads the organization toward even greater achievements in clinical outcomes, quality, patient and employee engagement, medical staff alignment, and community relations,” said Anthony Kuczinski, chair of the Princeton Health board. “We are excited about the combination of James’ strategic thinking and the passion he has for the organization, our patients and the community we serve.”

Previously, Demetriades served as vice president for professional services. He has been responsible for many other clinical and nonclinical areas at Princeton Health. He previously worked for organizations including the Reading Hospital and Medical Center in West Reading, Pa., and the HealthSouth Corporation in North Brunswick. He earned his bachelor’s degree in health care administration from the University of Scranton and holds a master’s of business administration degree in health care administration from the Temple University Fox School of Business in Philadelphia. He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is a reserve medical service corps officer in the United States Navy.

“I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve Penn Medicine Princeton Health as the CEO. I have spent 17 years here because I believe it is an outstanding organization and I hope to provide the kind of strategic leadership that will continue to propel us forward,” Demetriades said. “I am grateful to have a team of very knowledgeable and caring colleagues, the guidance of a highly committed board, and the strength of the entire Penn Medicine system supporting our work.”