Heart Rhythm Society Names New CEO to Assume Position in March 2019

Patricia Blake, Current ASGE CEO, Brings Over Two Decades of Nonprofit and Association Experience to Washington, D.C.

The Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) announces that Patricia V. Blake, FASAE, CAE will become the new CEO, following a thorough search and transition planning process. Recognized as a strong leader and strategic planner in the nonprofit association community, Blake brings more than two decades of industry experience to HRS, including a 17-year tenure in her current role as CEO of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE).

Blake will take the helm at HRS in March of 2019 and succeed James H. Youngblood, who announced earlier this year that he will step down in 2019 after 18 years at HRS, during which he shepherded significant change and global growth. Blake will work closely with Youngblood and HRS senior leadership in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition this spring.

"I'm honored to become a part of the heart rhythm community and lead the most influential association representing the field," said Blake. "At a time of healthcare transformation, I look forward to working with the committed member leaders and talented staff to build on HRS' firm foundation to help heart rhythm professionals thrive. My passion for growing medical specialty organizations will allow me to continue HRS' momentum in improving patient outcomes and increasing opportunities for professionals in the field of electrophysiology."

During her 17 years at ASGE, Blake demonstrated a strong track record of success in leading a professional medical society. She transformed ASGE from a small medical specialty organization to an equal partner in the gastroenterology profession. Under her leadership, ASGE grew from 8,000 to 15,000 members, dramatically expanded its programmatic offerings, and increased its operating budget from $4M to $17M.

"Pat is a very experienced leader and strategist who understands the importance of working collaboratively to resolve challenging issues," said Thomas Deering, MD, FHRS, HRS President, and Chief of the Arrhythmia Center for Piedmont Heart Institute in Atlanta. "She is a model of leadership and she brings tremendous energy to HRS at a pivotal time for the field of cardiac electrophysiology and our organization. Well-informed, thoughtful leadership will be critical as HRS continues to build on its reputation and the substantial growth in size that it has achieved over the last decade. Pat is well-equipped to build on these successes and help guide our future. We have great confidence in her and we are very excited about the future of our specialty and the next chapter at HRS."

Prior to her tenure at ASGE, Blake held leadership roles with the American Academy of Neurology and the Emergency Nurses Association. She is currently Chair-Elect of the American Society of Association Executives and will serve as Chair in 2019-2020.