Melinda L. Estes has been hired as the new chief executive officer at St Luke's Health System.

She succeeds Richard Hastings, who announced in January his plans to retire this summer.

Estes, 58, has extensive experience directing hospital systems, including the Fletcher Allen Health Care system in Burlington, Vt. where she is president and chief executive officer.

She is a board certified neurologist and neuropathologist.

The leadership change will begin when Hastings steps down on July 31. Chuck Robb, the health organization's chief operating officer and chief financial officer, will serve as interim chief executive until Estes takes over in September.