Albert Zanger has been named the new Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, MD. Zanger, who has been a financial and operational leader at the hospital since 2019, will succeed Noel Cervino, the hospital’s current president and CEO, who is set to retire later this year. Zanger’s new role will take effect on December 1, 2024.
Zanger, a member of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) since 2009, brings a wealth of experience in healthcare finance and operations to his new position. He initially joined UMMS as a financial analyst and later advanced to Director of Reimbursement. In 2019, he joined UM Charles Regional as Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer before assuming his recent position as Senior Vice President of Finance & Operations.
“Albert has been instrumental in helping UM Charles Regional meet the health care needs of residents in Charles County and growing access to medical care during a very challenging period that has included the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mohan Suntha, MD, MBA, President and CEO of UMMS. “His leadership in advancing physician services, major facility projects, and sustained financial performance has been exemplary. Albert’s commitment to the development of long-term strategic plans has positioned UM Charles Regional for continued success.”
Zanger expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the hospital and its team. “I am honored and humbled to be chosen to lead our community hospital,” he said. “We have a dedicated team throughout our hospital and medical practices, and I look forward to working with them to expand services and build upon our legacy of providing outstanding care to our patients.”
Zanger’s promotion follows the retirement announcement from Noel Cervino, who has served as the hospital’s CEO since 2009. Cervino’s tenure at UM Charles Regional was marked by significant advancements in patient care, community outreach, and facility expansions. One of his notable achievements was overseeing the integration of the former Civista Health System into UMMS in 2011. Under his leadership, UM Charles Regional underwent major improvements, including the modernization of its emergency department to better serve the growing needs of Charles County.
“Noel has fostered a culture of compassion, excellence, and integrity,” said Dr. Suntha. “He has our deepest gratitude, and we wish him a retirement filled with the same joy and fulfillment he has brought to UM Charles Regional and our UMMS family.”
Zanger’s appointment comes as the hospital continues to expand its services and enhance its healthcare facilities. His deep understanding of financial strategy and commitment to community health are expected to further the hospital’s mission of delivering high-quality care to Charles County.
