Mille Lacs Health System Names New CEO

Mille Lacs Health System (MLHS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Andy Knutson as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective January 27, 2025. Andy currently serves as Mille Lacs Health System’s Chief Financial Officer and brings over a decade of healthcare experience to his new role.

Phil Gravel, Chairperson of the MLHS Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Andy’s ability to lead the organization into the future: “After an exhaustive search that reviewed over 100 candidates both internal and external, we are confident that Andy’s healthcare expertise, financial acumen, and proven leadership skills make him the ideal choice to guide Mille Lacs Health System. Andy’s deep commitment to our mission and the community we serve ensures that MLHS will continue to provide exceptional care for our patients and residents. We are excited for the change and to see the organization thrive under his leadership.”

Since joining Mille Lacs Health System two and a half years ago as CFO, Andy has achieved remarkable financial successes, including improving the bottom line by $3 million, increasing net revenue by 38%, introducing productivity analytics, and negotiating better reimbursement rates with insurance companies. His ability to enhance organizational performance while maintaining a patient-centered focus has earned him the respect and trust of staff, leadership, and the board.

Andy shared his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity: “Over the last two and a half years, I have had the privilege of working alongside the amazing staff at MLHS, and I am very honored to continue to work with them now as their CEO. I want to thank Bill Nelson for everything he has done for this organization, and I am grateful to have spent the last few years learning from him. It will be my personal commitment to continue our mission of assisting those residing in and visiting the Mille Lacs area in achieving and maintaining optimal health. The Mille Lacs area has always been a special place for me, and it is a privilege to serve the community and its members by leading this organization.”

Andy brings a personal connection to Mille Lacs that further underscores his dedication. Having spent his childhood visiting the area and enjoying its natural beauty, he has generations of family who have lived in the region. Andy enjoys hunting and fishing in the Mille Lacs area, hobbies that have deepened his appreciation for the community and its surroundings.

The Board of Directors would like to extend special recognition to outgoing CEO Bill Nelson for his exceptional leadership over the past 16 years. Bill’s tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including most recently the expansion and remodeling of the hospital and main campus, the opening of two retail pharmacy locations, the addition of the Milaca clinic, and successfully navigating the challenges of the COVID years. To ensure a seamless transition, Bill Nelson will remain available for consultation over the next six months.

As Mille Lacs Health System welcomes Andy Knutson as its next CEO, the organization looks forward to building on its strong foundation and continuing to serve the needs of its patients, residents, and communities with excellence.