HACKENSACK, NJ — Hackensack Meridian Health CEO Robert C. Garrett will retire next June after a decade leading New Jersey’s largest hospital system, the network announced Monday.

Garrett, who took over the system in 2016, will step down June 30, 2027. The board plans to select his successor by March, with Garrett becoming CEO emeritus on July 1 to help with the transition.

Garrett oversaw a dramatic expansion of Hackensack Meridian, which now has 18 hospitals, 41,000 employees and more than 500 care locations across New Jersey. The system was created through the 2016 merger of Hackensack University Health Network and Meridian Health.

He also helped lead the creation of the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, New Jersey’s first new private medical school in decades.

“Under Bob’s leadership, he and his exceptional team created the state’s largest health network — which is nationally recognized for high-quality care, growth and innovation,” board Chairman Keith Banks said.

During Garrett’s tenure, Hackensack University Medical Center rose to the top of U.S. News & World Report’s New Jersey hospital rankings. Hackensack Meridian also operates the state’s top-ranked cancer center and is wrapping up a $1 billion fundraising campaign that includes a $125 million gift, the largest healthcare donation in New Jersey history.

Garrett said he was “filled with a profound sense of accomplishment” and confident the system’s “commitment to excellence will continue to thrive.”

Gov. Mikie Sherrill called Garrett “a transformative leader” and “a proven partner to New Jersey.”

Garrett has been named to Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People list four times and is set to be inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame Thursday.

The board’s search for his replacement is now underway.