LEWISTON — Five years after taking the helm at Central Maine Healthcare, Jeffrey Brickman announced Thursday his plans to retire in September.

Jeffrey Brickman Justin LeVett photo

The nonprofit healthcare company announced at the same time that Steve Littleson, president of Central Maine Medical Center, will be named interim president and chief executive officer starting in July until a permanent successor is chosen.

Between now and July 19, the company said in a news release, Brickman and CMH “will focus on closing out many of the unprecedented challenges of the global pandemic and finalizing strategic plans that provide both short- and long-term direction and continuity for the future.”

Once Littleson takes over, Brickman will continue to serve as an adviser until he retires from the job that paid $717,000 annually, according to the most recent Internal Revenue Service 990 form available on Guidestar.

“Jeff has positioned the CMH organization well for the future and has guided us through some extraordinary times. He leaves a foundation of excellence that will pay dividends for years to come,” Deborah Dunlap Avasthi, the immediate past board chairwoman, said in the news release.

Brickman’s tenure hasn’t always been rosy.

In 2018, the medical staff at three of CMH’s hospitals – in Lewiston, Bridgton and Rumford – voted no confidence in his leadership. But he persevered, with the board standing behind him.

“The board deeply appreciates Jeff’s service to CMH and celebrates this decision with him,” Dev Culver, the board’s chairman, said in the news release.

“Jeff has built a strong team of leaders during his tenure at CMH,” Culver said. “The board has confidence in Steve and the leadership team’s ability to guide CMH through this period of change and to ensure the sustainability of CMH’s mission to our community.”

Before coming to Lewiston, Brickman worked for medical institutions in Colorado, Illinois and New Jersey.

He replaced Peter Chalke as president and CEO in 2016. Chalke had served in the role since 2002.