Garner will serve as CEO and senior vice president of Memorial Hermann Pearland Hospital.[/caption]

Mario Garner will be Memorial Hermann Pearland Hospital’s inaugural CEO and senior vice president, Memorial Hermann officials announced July 27.

Garner previously worked in a similar role as the first CEO and president of New Orleans East Hospital. New Orleans East is located in an area that was severely damaged during Hurricane Katrina, officials said.

“I’m grateful for my experience in New Orleans, as it taught me a great deal about rebuilding both a hospital and a community,” Garner said. “I’m now sincerely honored to be able to serve the community of Pearland and excited for the growth that lies ahead.”

The American College of Healthcare Executives recently named Garner as Young Healthcare Executive of the Year, according to officials. A Lake Charles, Louisiana native, Garner also served as chief operating officer at HCA Fairview Park Hospital in Dublin, Georgia, as well as Regional Medical Center of Acadiana in Lafayette, Louisiana.

“We’re excited to have someone with Mario’s experience and background to build and lead the team at Memorial Hermann’s newest hospital in Pearland,” Memorial Hermann Regional President Erin Asprec said. “Mario is a proven leader not just in healthcare but also in the community.”

Memorial Hermann Pearland—a 64-bed facility at 16100 Hwy. 288—is expected to open in early 2016, according to officials.