United Methodist Communities (UMC) and the UMC Foundation have announced the appointment of Bob Peterson as interim president and CEO, effective Sept. 28.
Peterson steps into the role following the resignation of outgoing President and CEO Mark Lenhard. To ensure a seamless leadership transition, Lenhard will serve as counsel to Peterson for the remainder of his time with the organization, sharing his institutional insight and experience.
A familiar leader at the helm
Peterson is well-positioned to lead UMC through the transition, having served as the organization’s Chief Financial Officer since 2019. In his capacity as CFO, he worked closely with Lenhard to shape strategic growth initiatives, strengthen UMC’s financial standing, and guide critical investments in residents, staff, technology, and facility expansion. Prior to joining UMC, Peterson served as CFO of Atlantic Health System’s Hackettstown and Newton Medical Centers.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role,” Peterson said. “Mark has positioned UMC for an exciting future, and I look forward to building on that momentum alongside our teammates, residents, families, partners, and board members.”
UMC Board Chair Rodney Ross praised the selection, noting, “He listens, he collaborates, and he always puts the mission first. We are excited to have him step into this role, and we’re confident that under his leadership, UMC will continue to grow and find new ways to make a difference in the lives of older adults.”
Building on a legacy of growth
Lenhard leaves behind a transformative tenure since taking the helm in 2022. Under his leadership, UMC achieved significant operational milestones, including:
- BEAM Consulting: Launching a consulting arm helping senior living organizations modernize their operations through advanced technology and artificial intelligence.
- Connexion Communities: Establishing a subsidiary that successfully expanded UMC’s mission and footprint beyond New Jersey.
- Modernized Aging Services: Reinforcing UMC’s reputation as a forward-thinking leader in senior living, home care, and comprehensive aging services.
“Serving UMC has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” Lenhard said. “I am confident in UMC’s future. Under Bob’s leadership, UMC will continue to grow, innovate, and create new possibilities for older adults and their families.”
UMC plans to roll out additional details regarding its comprehensive organizational transition plan in the coming weeks.
