Lawrence “LJ” Baker, Jr. has been named Chief Strategic Initiatives Officer and Physician Recruitment Director at Lane Regional Medical Center.
LJ is a retired Lieutenant Colonel and decorated combat Veteran who served in the U.S. Army Infantry for 23 years. He possesses more than 30 years of leadership experience, including six years of hospital administration experience. He will assist in the refinement of organizational goals, develop and implement long-term initiatives, build key community and stakeholder partnerships, and foster crucial political relationships. Additionally, he will spearhead physician recruitment actions to facilitate growth of essential service lines and oversee Foundation initiatives and donor relations to support achievement of the hospital’s mission and vision.
Prior to joining the Lane family, LJ was Chief Human Resources & Strategic Initiative Officer at Sierra Vista Hospital in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico where he successfully lobbied and testified for approval of healthcare legislation initiatives at both state and federal levels. Some of his work resulted in his previous hospital obtaining close to $10 million in capital/operational funding.
LJ received his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Georgia and holds a graduate certificate in Administrative Essentials from Central Michigan University. He is pursuing a Master of Science in Administration degree (MSA) with an emphasis in Healthcare Administration from Central Michigan, University Global Campus. LJ previously served as board chairman for Manhattan Area Technical College in Manhattan, Kansas, is an active member of the Georgia Military College Foundation, 28th Infantry and 187th Infantry Associations, and holds life member status with the National Infantry Association, Society of the 1st Infantry Division, and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
LJ and his wife, Clarinda, affectionately known as “CJ”, will live in Zachary with their “pet baby” dog Cocoa. They have three adult children who work and reside in other states. His personal interests include spending time with family and friends, golfing, and serving the community.
“CJ and I are extremely excited to join the Zachary community and create long-lasting relationships with the wonderful people in the region,” says LJ. “It is a privilege to be here and serve our citizens through Lane’s efforts to provide quality patient care, outstanding customer service, and innovative treatment options.”
