Bradford Health, one of the leading addiction treatment providers in the Southeastern United States, has named Robert Marsh as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Marsh, a proven addiction treatment leader, brings a wealth of experience to the company, having previously led 360 Behavioral Health, a prominent autism service provider. His background also includes key roles at Kindred Healthcare and Acadia Healthcare. With this expertise, Marsh is well-positioned to steer Bradford Health towards continued success, expanding access to high-quality substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services.
“I’m honored to join the Bradford team and contribute to its mission of providing high-quality care to individuals battling substance use disorders,” said Marsh upon his appointment. “I’m committed to building on Bradford’s legacy of excellence and expanding access to life-changing treatment services across the Southeast.” As an addiction treatment leader, Marsh’s appointment represents a new phase in Bradford’s growth, with a focus on enhancing services and reaching more individuals in need of addiction treatment.
A Vision for Expanding Access to Treatment Across the Southeast
Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Bradford Health operates a network of 40 facilities across the Southeastern U.S., providing a wide range of addiction treatment services. These services include intervention care, crisis response, intensive outpatient care (IOP), partial hospitalization programs (PHP), residential treatment programs, inpatient detox, and transitional and life skills programs. Bradford’s comprehensive approach ensures that individuals in need of substance use disorder treatment receive the level of care that suits their needs at every stage of their recovery journey.
The Southeastern region is a critical area when it comes to addiction treatment, and Bradford Health has been a cornerstone of this care for many years. With Marsh’s leadership as an addiction treatment leader, the company is poised to further its commitment to accessible and high-quality treatment, reaching more individuals and communities in need.
Bradford’s growth and expansion, particularly in recent years, reflect a strategic effort to meet the increasing demand for addiction treatment services. This growth was further catalyzed by the company’s acquisition by private equity firm Lee Equity Partners in 2022. Under Lee Equity’s ownership, Bradford Health has been able to leverage additional resources to scale its operations and improve its service offerings. For instance, in 2023, Bradford acquired Vertava Health, a treatment provider based in Southaven, Mississippi, expanding its footprint and services to a broader population.
Marsh’s strategic vision for Bradford aligns with the company’s growth trajectory, focusing on enhancing services and expanding access to treatment. By building on the existing foundation of excellence at Bradford, Marsh is committed to ensuring that the company’s programs reach the individuals who need them most, all while maintaining the highest standards of care and service as an addiction treatment leader.
Bradford Health’s Recent Leadership Transitions
Bradford Health has experienced a number of leadership changes over the past several years. In late 2023, Lisa Evans was appointed CEO, succeeding longtime leader Mike Rickman. However, Evans stepped down in April 2024, creating an opportunity for Marsh to step in and continue Bradford’s growth. These leadership transitions come at a time of significant change and expansion within the company, with Marsh now tasked with steering the organization toward continued success.
Christian Chauvet, Partner at Lee Equity Partners, expressed confidence in Marsh’s ability to lead Bradford into the future. “Rob is one of the strongest operators in behavioral healthcare. Bradford is confident that his expertise will enhance our ability to serve our communities and fulfill our mission,” Chauvet stated. This endorsement reflects the strong expectations surrounding Marsh’s leadership and his ability to drive the company forward as it works to expand access to critical addiction treatment services.
As an addiction treatment leader, Marsh’s ability to navigate challenges and seize opportunities will be crucial in driving Bradford Health’s continued growth. His leadership is expected to lead the company to new heights, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from the life-changing care Bradford provides.
Marsh’s Experience and Transition
Before joining Bradford Health, Robert Marsh served as CEO of 360 Behavioral Health, an autism service provider that operates nationally. Under his leadership, 360 Behavioral Health expanded its reach and improved its service offerings. Marsh’s extensive background in behavioral healthcare includes leadership roles at Kindred Healthcare and Acadia Healthcare, two prominent healthcare organizations known for their focus on mental health and addiction treatment.
Marsh’s departure from 360 Behavioral Health to join Bradford Health represents a significant shift in his career, though he will continue to play a role in the organization as a board member. His transition allows 360 Behavioral Health to maintain continuity while also positioning Marsh to focus on expanding Bradford’s presence in the Southeastern U.S.
Kate Sheldon-Princi, Chief Operating Officer at 360 Behavioral Health, will step into the role of interim CEO during this transition period. Sheldon-Princi brings deep operational experience to the role and will guide the company as it moves forward under new leadership.
Marsh is one of several high-profile leaders in the autism therapy sector to step down this spring. Jason Owen, the CEO of BlueSprig Pediatrics, a KKR-backed autism therapy provider, also left his post to take a role at Envision Healthcare. Additionally, Kathleen Stengel, the CEO of NeurAbilities Healthcare, announced her departure, highlighting ongoing changes in the leadership landscape of healthcare providers focused on autism and related behavioral health services.
The Strategic Focus: Enhancing Services and Expanding Reach
Under Robert Marsh’s leadership, Bradford Health will continue to focus on enhancing its treatment services and expanding access to care. This commitment is evident in the company’s recent acquisitions and efforts to broaden its network of facilities. With the backing of Lee Equity Partners, Bradford Health is well-positioned to scale its operations and increase its impact across the region.
Bradford’s services are vital to individuals and families struggling with substance use disorders, and with Marsh at the helm as an addiction treatment leader, the company is expected to continue improving its offerings, whether through new treatment programs or expanding the availability of existing services. The focus on comprehensive care is a cornerstone of Bradford’s approach, which includes everything from residential treatment programs to outpatient and detox services.
The addiction treatment landscape continues to evolve, and Marsh’s expertise in behavioral healthcare positions him well to guide Bradford Health through the challenges and opportunities ahead. His leadership will be essential in driving the company’s growth and ensuring that more individuals have access to the treatment they need to achieve lasting recovery.
A Bright Future Ahead
Bradford Health’s appointment of Robert Marsh as CEO marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the organization. With his deep experience in healthcare leadership and a strong commitment to expanding access to substance use disorder treatment, Marsh is poised to build on Bradford’s legacy of excellence and expand its reach across the Southeastern United States.
The company’s growth in recent years, coupled with Marsh’s leadership as an addiction treatment leader, ensures that Bradford Health is well-positioned to meet the needs of individuals battling addiction. As the company continues to expand its network of facilities and enhance its treatment offerings, it will remain a critical resource for those seeking high-quality care and support in their recovery journeys. Under Marsh’s leadership, Bradford Health is sure to make a lasting impact on the communities it serves, offering hope and healing to those who need it most.
