Maury Regional will soon have a new CEO after its veteran leader’s impending retirement. Hospital COO Alan Watson is prepared take over the reins of the 275-bed facility from the outgoing Robert Otwell.

“On behalf of the board of trustees, it is my pleasure to announce that Alan Watson will assume the position of chief executive officer following Robert Otwell’s retirement,” Maury Regional board chair Doug Williamson said in a release issued today. “When Robert began considering his long-term plans for retirement two years ago, the succession planning process began. Alan was selected to join the senior leadership team and he has done an outstanding job. The board, after an extensive review, felt that Alan had the knowledge, character and experience to make him the perfect fit for the medical center

Watson has roughly 30 years of experience having previously served as CEO of Mercy Health Partners and CEO of Bradley Memorial Hospital in Cleveland, Tenn. He has served in his current role since 2010.

Otwell has manned the helm of the hospital since 2005. He will remain with the Maury Regional until Watson’s replacement at COO can be found.