FAYETTEVILLE -- Following William L. Bradley's announcement last year that he plans to retire this November as Washington Regional CEO, the medical system announced further transition plans, including naming Bradley's successor.

Effective Sept. 1, J. Larry Shackelford , CPA, FACMPE, will assume the role of CEO, according to Greg Lee, chair of the Washington Regional Board of Directors. Shackelford has served since 2010 on the Washington Regional executive leadership team as Senior Vice President - Strategy and Outreach Services. As Shackelford begins his new role, Bradley will assume the title of CEO Emeritus until his retirement in mid-November and will assist in ensuring a smooth transition.

Lee said the board conducted a diligent search to find the right person to be the next CEO.

J. Larry Shackelford has served Washington Regional Medical System as Senior Vice President - Strategy and Outreach Services since June 2010. Previously he served as the Chief Executive Officer of Medical Associates of Northwest Arkansas, a multispecialty physician group practice, since its inception in 1998. After graduating from the University of Arkansas in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Shackelford worked for the accounting firm Baird, Kurtz and Dobson for six years before entering healthcare administration at Fayetteville Diagnostic Clinic. He is a Certified Public Accountant and fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives. He has served as treasurer and president of Arkansas Medical Group Management Association, treasurer for Susan G. Komen-Ozark Affiliate, board member for Arkansas Community Foundation.