Cerner appoints new chief executive and chairman

US-based health information technology company Cerner Corporation has appointed Brent Shafer as its CEO and chairman of the board of directors, effective February 1.

Previously CEO of Philips North America, a role he assumed in February 2014, Shafer oversaw the largest market of global technology provider Philips. Prior to that, Shafer was CEO of the global Philips Home Healthcare Solutions business from May 2010 until May 2014. He has had additional senior leadership positions with Philips and at other companies, including GE Medical Systems, Hill-Rom Company, and Hewlett-Packard.

Cerner co-founder Cliff Illig, who has served as interim CEO and chairman of the board since July 2017, will resume his role as vice chairman of the board.

“Brent is a proven chief executive who has helped lead the growth and strategies of a complex, multinational organization over a number of years,” Illig said. “He is committed to innovation, with extensive knowledge of health care, technology and consumer markets and an exceptional skill set that complements Cerner’s strong leadership team. Since our founding, Cerner has used the power of information technology to disrupt and improve health care. The addition of Brent to our leadership team positions Cerner well for our next era of growth.”

Shafer commented: “For decades, Cerner has built its reputation on meaningful innovation and driving client value. This company’s history of remarkable, sustained growth is testament to a strong leadership culture, and I’m excited to celebrate many new milestones with Cerner associates around the world. My commitment to Cerner’s clients, shareholders and associates worldwide is that we will continue to be the catalyst for real and effective improvement across health care.”