Since taking the helm during the network’s formation ten years ago, Garrett oversaw the integration of 18 hospitals and more than 500 care locations, tripling the system's footprint. His tenure is marked by the establishment of the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine and a focus on addressing health inequities through targeted social programs. Under his guidance, the network achieved national recognition, including top-tier rankings from U.S. News & World Report and a significant placement on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list.

Garrett’s influence extended beyond regional operations to the national stage, where he served on the World Economic Forum’s Health and Healthcare Governor's Community and earned consistent recognition among Modern Healthcare’s most influential leaders. His final months in the role will focus on a transition period; the board expects to name a new CEO by the end of the first quarter of 2027. Following his departure, Garrett will serve as CEO Emeritus for one year to assist his successor, closing a career that included a $1 billion fundraising milestone for the system.