Healthcare District CEO Search Set to Begin

CEO Search for Desert Healthcare District Receives Board Approval

PALM SPRINGS — The Desert Healthcare District Board of directors on Tuesday approved a contract with Bob Murray & Associates to begin a CEO search.

Chris Christensen, interim CEO and chief administrative officer, told Uken Report that he anticipates the work will begin January, with an estimated time frame of 13 to 16 weeks. You may read the full contract here:https://ukenreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Chief-Executive-Officer-23_Murray-REVISED.pdf

A new CEO is needed to replace Dr. Conrado Barzaga, who was ousted earlier this year. His extravagant spending on the taxpayer’s dime likely led to his downfall and conflicts of interest, according to public documents. His ego and temper allegedly also played a role.

The fixed, flat professional services fee for conducting the Chief Executive Officer recruitment on behalf of the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation is $25,000. The Desert Healthcare District & Foundation will also be responsible for reimbursing expenses Bob Murray & Associates incurs on the district’s, which are not to exceed $8,000.

Representatives will seek to reach candidates in communities and organizations with demographic profiles and populations served like that of the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation, to maximize the potential for individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds, races, cultures, physical abilities, life experiences, and gender to be considered for the Chief Executive Officer position.

Bob Murray & Associates typically recommends six to eight candidates that they feel will best match the board’s expectations, and will prepare a detailed written report on each candidate.

Recruiters will work closely with DHCD staff to coordinate and schedule interviews and candidate travel.