A steady light for leaders navigating change.
A Board-Certified Healthcare Executive and Life Fellow (LFACHE) of the American College of Healthcare Executives with 35+ years of experience as a healthcare leader, executive coach, and trusted advisor—partnering with leaders to drive operational excellence, develop people, and align mission with meaningful impact.
My mission is to walk alongside healthcare leaders and organizations as a trusted steward, guided by faith-informed values—helping them listen well, lead wisely, and make principled decisions that improve care, sustain mission, and serve the greater good.
Testimonials
Gary embodies passionate optimism and has a leadership style that makes others comfortable. He easily draws in others, creates momentum, and builds teams.
Douglas Eby MD - Executive VP - Alaska Native Medical Center
I served as Chairman of Nantucket Cottage Hospital, and will be eternally grateful to Gary for the leadership he brought to our community in a time of crisis. As a small rural hospital, we were in a very vulnerable position, as we had an acting CEO and a role as the major health resource for our small community. He arrived just before COVID, and soon the pressures of the pandemic were building toward overwhelming.
When Providence intervened and we were blessed by the successful recruitment of Gary Shaw as President and CEO, we found the ideal leader for our institution and community. His background and his inspiring talent to motivate and mobilize all available resources enabled us to thrive during the dismal crisis that was characterized by such fear and uncertainty. His steady and principled leadership reignited confidence to take on the challenges of our circumstances.
Gary worked well with a network of organizations within and beyond the hospital walls, including the often frustrating demands of the municipality and the broader health system. He led with innovation, inspiration, and clarity of purpose to engage the various and varied constituencies. His mission oriented approach was embraced by all parties and fostered open communication and shared objectives.
He will be remembered fondly in our community as the right person at the right time.
Kevin Hickey - Past Chair, Hospital Advisory Board - Nantucket Cottage Hospital
Gary Shaw is an exceptional leader who always delivers operationally, financially, and ethically.
In my 27 years of executive search, I interviewed more than 9,000 executives across the U.S. and in six countries on four continents. Gary Shaw is one of a handful who stood out for his commitment to performance and accountability, with the highest standards of integrity, empathy, and a commitment to support his team.
He embodies the best qualities of leadership — as an enlisted man who rose through the ranks to become an officer in the United States Navy, and as a respected and successful leader in health care.
Jon G.Self - Founder & Managing Partner - JohnGSelf + Partners
Gary is a coach of all coaches, leading with wisdom, humility, and purpose. His expertise and guidance change how leaders see themselves and how they show up for others—leaving a lasting impact on people, teams, and the legacy he helps create alongside them.
Dr. Thomas R. Cervone, DO, MBA - Medical Director - Hospital Medicine at Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
I’ve watched Gary lead during high-pressure moments, and his integrity never wavers. He does the right thing even when it’s difficult, unpopular, or costly—and that earns deep trust.
He doesn’t talk about faith in a performative way—he lives it. He and I have very different beliefs, but his patience, grace, and consistency reflect someone who is deeply connected with his Source and allows that relationship to shape how he treats others.
People trust Gary because he creates a safe space for honest conversation. He carries confidentiality seriously and offers counsel that is thoughtful, measured, and rooted in genuine care.
Pete Swanson, Principal - Impact Associates