ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Centralus Health is making a change in leadership.

Dr. Martin Stallone plans to step down this fall as CEO, a position he’s held since 2018. In his place will be Robert Lawlis, who starts his tenure on Nov. 7. Lawlis has spent 17 years with Cayuga Health, now serving as CEO of Cayuga Health Partners.

Centralus, which was created earlier this year with the merger of Cayuga and Arnot Health, says the transition is part of a long-standing plan to ensure stability, continuity, and continued growth. “I am confident in Mr. Lawlis’ ability to lead Centralus Health into its next chapter,” Tom LiVigne, co-chairman of the Board of Directors of Centralus Health said. “His deep knowledge of our health system, and dedication to improving operations through the lens of high-quality, equitable care makes him the right leader for this moment.”

Stallone has also been with Cayuga Health for 17 years. “The board of directors expresses its genuine and heartfelt appreciation for Dr. Marty Stallone’s leadership of Cayuga Health and Centralus Health. Marty’s tireless efforts and bold leadership created successful new relationships with key clinical and organizational partners, to improve the care available to everyone we serve. Marty has left an indelible mark on our community, and we owe him a debt of gratitude for his long service,” LiVigne added.

Stallone is joining The Lifetime Heathcare Companies, which is the parent company to Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, in December as Executive Vice President, Chief Healthcare Services Officer.