Kirk Jenkins is set to become the new President and CEO of Lexington Health on January 1, 2026. Jenkins, who joined the organization in 2013, has been serving as the senior vice president of the Physician Network since 2015.
A graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from The Citadel in 2000, Jenkins later earned his MBA from Clemson University in 2003. His background includes a substantial tenure as a healthcare administrator in the United States Air Force from 2004 to 2013, where he held various operational leadership and strategic planning roles. His experiences have equipped him with a deep understanding of the healthcare market, organizational structure, quality care, strategic goals, and corporate culture—elements essential for his leadership at Lexington Health.
Hailing from West Columbia, Jenkins is rooted in the local community. He was born at Lexington Medical Center and grew up just minutes from the hospital. Although he left to attend The Citadel, he has always maintained a strong connection to his hometown. Watching the area flourish during his visits back home, he has been particularly impressed by how the hospital has evolved alongside the community. Jenkins believes that the rebranding to Lexington Health reflects the comprehensive range of services offered throughout the Midlands.
His journey back to the hospital where he was born stems from a concurrence of personal experiences and a profound belief in teamwork. A pivotal insight that shaped his career path came from conversations with his Citadel roommate’s uncle, a healthcare administrator. This connection sparked Jenkins’ interest in healthcare administration, leading to what he describes as a threefold appeal to the profession.
Firstly, he emphasizes the opportunity to serve. “Healthcare is clearly a great service, and what we’re here to do every day,” he said, expressing his desire to contribute meaningfully to the community. Secondly, Jenkins values teamwork highly, likening the work environment at Lexington Health to “the ultimate team sport,” where diverse backgrounds and skills unite to deliver quality service. His experiences in the military, at The Citadel, and through sports have all facilitated his affinity for collaborative environments.
The third appeal is leveraging his business knowledge within his healthcare role. Jenkins finds joy in being part of an organization filled with dedicated and intelligent professionals. He describes the work atmosphere as phenomenal and takes pride in the exceptional team dynamic cultivated at Lexington Health.
Outside of work, Jenkins prioritizes spending time with family, which includes his wife and three children: daughter Kate, son Luke, and son Cooper. They enjoy activities like hiking, biking, time outdoors, and time with friends.
Reflecting on his new role, Jenkins emphasizes a commitment to building on the foundation laid since 1971. “My goal is to continue to provide the great service that we’ve provided to this local community,” he shared. With a focus on the Midlands, he reiterates the importance of the relationships developed with patients and the trust established over the years. Jenkins sees his role as an opportunity to support and collaborate with his talented colleagues while remaining dedicated to the community he cherishes.
In essence, Jenkins is excited to lead Lexington Health forward, maintaining a steadfast emphasis on service to friends, family, and neighbors.