Methodist President and CEO Steve Goeser announces upcoming retirement; Executive Vice President Josie Abboud named successor

Steve Goeser, who’s served as president and CEO of Methodist Health System since 2017, has announced his retirement plans. After 21 years with the organization, Goeser said his last day as president and CEO will be Dec. 31, 2025. 

The health system board of directors has named Josie Abboud, FACHE, as his successor. Abboud currently serves as executive vice president of the health system and president and CEO of Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital.

During his tenure, Goeser helped build Methodist into a strong and stable regional health care provider in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa.

“These past 21 years have been filled with challenges, accomplishments, lasting memories and friendships,” Goeser said. “I can honestly say it has been a complete privilege to be part of this amazing health care system. Nearly every day, someone outside of Methodist comments on how special our care is and how The Meaning of Care is not just a slogan, but a commitment and way of life.”

Among his many accomplishments as president and CEO, he:

• Led the successful affiliation of Methodist Fremont Health and fully integrated its operations into Methodist Health System
• Directed the construction of a new corporate headquarters
• Led the planning and construction of the Methodist Pathology Center-Schenken Pavilion and Methodist Hospital’s $90 million surgery renovation and expansion project
• Was responsible for the planning, construction and further expansions of Methodist Women’s Hospital and its adjoining Medical Office Building
• Led a critical strategic planning process to refocus the health system’s mission and ensure smart growth into the future
• Mentored numerous individuals throughout his career

Abboud has served as executive vice president for Methodist Health System since July 2024 and president and CEO of Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital since 2018. 

“Josie is a proven leader who has all the skills necessary to be a great health system CEO,” Goeser said.

The presidents of Methodist Physicians Clinic, Methodist Fremont Health, Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital, Methodist Hospital Foundation, Nebraska Methodist College and Shared Service Systems currently report to Abboud.

“I am both honored and humbled to lead Methodist Health System and follow Steve’s leadership,” Abboud said. “He has served as a mentor to me, and I’m grateful for this opportunity.”

Her career at Methodist will soon span 30 years, as she began in 1996 as a critical care staff nurse. Her leadership trajectory has included roles as service executive, vice president, executive vice president and chief operating officer. 

Media coverage

Becker's Hospital Review: Nebraska Methodist CEO to retire

Omaha World-Herald: Methodist CEO Steve Goeser to retire; successor announced