Cerimele named new HR leader for WVU Medicine

WVU Medicine has named a new leader for Human Resources, Albert L. Wright Jr., president and CEO of WVU Medicine-WVU Hospitals and COO of the West Virginia University Health System, announced today (May 5).

Leeann K. Cerimele will assume the role of chief human resources officer, with responsibilities for the entirety of the West Virginia University Health System, while also serving as vice president of human resources for WVU Medicine-WVU Hospitals. Her start date will be announced later this month.

She will replace Charlotte Bennett, current vice president for human resources, who is retiring in June.

Cerimele is a seasoned human resources professional with more than 18 years of experience, including 11 years of operational and leadership experience in a healthcare setting.

“In addition to better integrating and standardizing Human Resources functions across the system, Leeann will be focused on employee and physician recruitment,” said Wright. “We have hundreds of positions to fill and are searching for the ‘best of the best’ to serve our patients and their families.

“Leeann also will make employee engagement a top priority. We’re working hard to create a positive work environment for our employees, and she will help take us to the next level.”

Cerimele most recently served as vice president of human resources for multiple University of Pittsburgh Medical Center regional and community hospitals. She also was responsible for Employee Health and Volunteer Services and oversaw management of the facility-based daycare center, concierge services and gift shop.

“Leeann’s leadership experience and human resources background make her a perfect fit for WVU Medicine,” Wright said. “She has been an active leader in a growing healthcare institution, with particular strengths in recruitment and retention, employee engagement, and integration of hospitals into a large healthcare system.

“As WVU Medicine continues to grow, we will look to Leeann to help us navigate the increased demands and challenges that come with meeting the growing needs of our patients.”

Cerimele has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown, Pa., and a master’s degree in human resources management and industrial relations from St. Francis College, Loretto, Pa.