The Ridgeview Medical Center Board of Directors has named Ben Nielsen as Ridgeview’s new president and CEO, replacing Mike Phelps who will retire on Jan. 2, 2027.
Nielsen will begin his new role on June 14, as Phelps stays on staff to assist in the leadership transition.
“I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to serve as the next president and CEO of Ridgeview,” Nielsen said. “Ridgeview is a strong, people-first organization committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care while growing alongside our communities. We will continue to prioritize expanding access, strengthening services, and preserving our independence that keeps care close to home and focused on those we serve.”
“Over the past 16 years, Nielsen has made extraordinary contributions to Ridgeview through thoughtful leadership, strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to our mission,” said Ridgeview Board of Directors Chair Theresa Dalen. “He has shown the board that he has the expertise, experience and vision to guide Ridgeview forward in a rapidly evolving health care environment while preserving the culture that distinguishes our organization. We are confident that under Ben’s leadership Ridgeview will remain an independent, financially strong and viable community-centered health care system.”
Dalen said that upon receiving Phelps’ decision to retire, the Ridgeview Board initiated a comprehensive process in early 2026 to guide the selection of its new president and CEO and conducted both external and internal search options “Throughout the selection process, the Board recognized Ben’s strategic capabilities, operational leadership and his experience developing and implementing many of Ridgeview’s key business priorities,” Dalen said. “Under Ben’s leadership as president and CEO, Ridgeview will continue its commitment to delivering exceptional care, supporting our employees and medical staff, investing in innovation, and ensuring the organization remains strong and independent for generations to come.”
Nielsen has held several leadership positions at Ridgeview, including serving as executive director from 2010-13, vice president of Ambulatory Services from 2014-19 and as chief operating officer since 2019.
As chief operating officer, Nielsen is accountable for Ridgeview’s ambulatory operations across its four hospital campuses, 12 primary care locations and its specialty clinics, rehabilitation and ambulance services. Nielsen also serves on the Ridgeview Sibley Medical Center Board and the Ridgeview Le Sueur Medical Center Board, supporting Ridgeview’s critical access hospitals.
Dalen said that upon receiving Phelps’ decision to retire, the Ridgeview Board initiated a comprehensive process in early 2026 to guide the selection of its new President and CEO and conducted both external and internal search options “Throughout the selection process, the Board recognized Ben’s strategic capabilities, operational leadership and his experience developing and implementing many of Ridgeview’s key business priorities,” Dalen said. “Under Ben’s leadership as President and CEO, Ridgeview will continue its commitment to delivering exceptional care, supporting our employees and medical staff, investing in innovation, and ensuring the organization remains strong and independent for generations to come.”
Phelps will remain with the organization through 2026 to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
“From the time Ben was hired to lead the 2011 opening of our Two Twelve Medical Center, he has continually shown an ability to effectively work across our organization with our operating divisions, joint ventures and with our physician partners to achieve Ridgeview’s goals,” Phelps said. “His calm demeanor and thoughtful decision-making process, paired with his knowledge of the industry and its unique business dynamics, have prepared him well for the role of President and CEO of Ridgeview. More importantly, Ben’s character and appreciation for our strong culture – centered on ensuring everyone we care for matters here – will help sustain our commitment to caring for our communities while keeping Ridgeview a strong, healthy organization where staff can invest their valuable time and careers.”
