Grossmont Healthcare District Board Selects James Sly as next Chief Executive Officer

Grossmont Healthcare District Board Selects James Sly as next Chief Executive Officer

November 4, 2025 Board, Community, General

The Grossmont Healthcare District (GHD) Board of Directors has unanimously approved the appointment of James Sly as the District's next Chief Executive Officer following a 5-0 vote at its November 4 board meeting. Sly, a lifelong East County resident and highly respected regional business leader, will officially assume his new role on December 15, 2025, succeeding Aaron Byzak, who has served in an interim capacity since March 2025.

Sly was selected following an exhaustive, multi-month recruitment process that drew nearly 500 applicants from across the country. The search was conducted by Blair Search Partners in coordination with an ad hoc committee of the Grossmont Healthcare District Board, which included two board members, the former CEO, and the current interim CEO. The process involved multiple rounds of interviews with dozens of highly qualified candidates before the Board unanimously approved Sly's appointment.

Sly joins GHD after more than 13 years in executive leadership with the East County Economic Development Council, including serving as CEO since 2020, where he led innovative partnerships across healthcare, education, and industry to strengthen the local workforce and economy. During his tenure, he collaborated closely with GHD on several major initiatives, including the development of the District's 2024 Healthcare Career Pipeline Project and a comprehensive strategy to expand healthcare workforce training opportunities in East County.

"James brings the perfect blend of strategic vision, community insight, and leadership experience to guide the District into its next chapter," said William R. 'Bob' Ayres, GHD Board President. "He has been an indispensable partner to GHD for years, helping us expand healthcare access and workforce opportunities. We are excited to welcome him as our new CEO."

A Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and 2024 San Diego Business Journal CEO of the Year, Sly has spent more than 15 years in executive leadership roles spanning the nonprofit, public, and economic development sectors. At the East County EDC, he secured more than $180 million in new funding and managed projects that addressed healthcare workforce shortages, supported small-business development, and enhanced social mobility throughout East County.

Sly's career also includes positions with GKN Aerospace, Public Consulting Group, and Maximus, Inc., where he managed large-scale workforce and public-service programs. He currently serves on more than a dozen local and regional boards, including the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority (Vice Chair and Finance Chair), SANDAG, the World Trade Center San Diego (Board Chair), and both the East County and Santee Chambers of Commerce.

"I am deeply honored to lead the Grossmont Healthcare District and continue its legacy of serving East County residents," said James Sly. "Having partnered with GHD for many years, I've seen firsthand the District's impact on improving health access, supporting community wellness, and fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals. I look forward to building on that foundation and advancing our shared mission."

Sly holds an MBA from Western Governors University, a B.S. in Business Management from San Diego State University, and a Not-for-Profit Management certificate from Harvard Business School. He and his family reside in Santee, California.

Byzak, who has served as Interim CEO since March, congratulated Sly on his appointment.

"James is an outstanding choice to lead the District," said Byzak. "His integrity, collaborative style, and deep commitment to East County will serve GHD and the community well for years to come."

Byzak will continue to serve through December 19th, as Sly transitions into the role. To reach the CEO desk, contact Ext: 5055

Any questions or comments? Contact us here.