Holmdel-based Visiting Nurse Association Health Group – one of the nation’s largest nonprofit providers of home health, hospice and community-based care – has tapped an industry veteran as its next leader. 

Christopher Rinn will take the reins as president and chief executive officer in early August, succeeding Dr. Steven Landers, who is stepping down this summer. Landers has served in the position since June 2012. 

A longtime Monmouth County resident, Rinn has served as CEO of VNA of Central Jersey Community Health Centers since 2017, according to VNA Health Group. Previously, he was acting health commissioner and assistant commissioner for the New Jersey Department of Health and executive director of emergency medical services and government affairs for Jersey City Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. 

In the hiring announcement, Landers described Rinn as “an excellent fit for our future.” 

Patrick McMenamin, VNA Health Group board chairman, who co-led the CEO search committee, added, “We wanted someone who understands our sophisticated network of programs and services and has the skills and experience to oversee our various programs and services, and Christopher checks all the boxes.” 

Rinn said he will work closely with Landers and the VNA Health Group team to ensure a smooth transition.

“As a long-time member of the VNA family, I heartily welcome this opportunity to help move health care forward for all our communities,” Rinn added. 

His appointment comes amid a troubled time for the nursing industry in New Jersey. According to a statement from U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-5th District, who recently announced $3.8 million in federal funding to help Holy Name Medical Center train more nurses, the Garden State predicts a shortage of 11,400 nurses by 2030 — the third highest in the U.S. 

Founded more than 110 years ago, VNA Health Group is the second largest independent, nonprofit provider of home-based health services in New Jersey and Mid-Central Ohio. The organization employs nearly 2,500 people and cares for over 150,000 individuals and families each year.