American Healthcare REIT names Jeff Hanson CEO, Scott Estes Lead Director
American Healthcare REIT, Inc. announced Jeff Hanson as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, while he continues as Chairman of the Board. Gabe Willhite was elevated to President, retaining his role as Chief Operating Officer. Danny Prosky retired as CEO but remains a director and advisor. Additionally, the Board appointed Scott Estes as Lead Independent Director.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
American Healthcare REIT, Inc. has named Jeff Hanson as its Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, accelerating its focus on platform-enhancing strategies for its next phase of growth. Hanson continues to serve as Chairman of the Board, a role he has held since the company's formation. The leadership transitions build on a decade of stability while driving value creation for stockholders.
Gabe Willhite has been elevated to the role of President, in addition to his ongoing responsibilities as Chief Operating Officer. This expansion of his role is intended to bolster the company's operational leadership and focus on strategies to further scale the platform. Willhite has been with the company and its predecessors since 2016, serving most recently as Chief Operating Officer since 2022.
Danny Prosky, who served as President and Chief Executive Officer since the company's formation, has retired from his executive role. He will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Directors and will act as an advisor to the management team. Hanson had served as Interim Chief Executive Officer since February 2026, when Prosky began a medical leave of absence.
The Board of Directors has appointed Scott Estes as Lead Independent Director. Estes, an independent director since August 2022 and Chair of the Audit Committee since June 2023, is the former Chief Financial Officer of Welltower Inc. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Essential Properties Realty Trust and as a member of the Board of Trustees of JBG SMITH Properties.
Leadership Changes
The following appointments and transitions are effective immediately:
| Name | New Role | Previous/Continuing Role |
|---|---|---|
| Jeff Hanson | Chief Executive Officer | Chairman of the Board (continuing) |
| Gabe Willhite | President | Chief Operating Officer (continuing) |
| Danny Prosky | Retired from executive role | Member of the Board of Directors, Advisor |
| Scott Estes | Lead Independent Director | Independent Director since August 2022 |
What specific platform-enhancing strategies will Jeff Hanson prioritize to drive the next phase of growth?
How will the expanded leadership structure under Hanson and Willhite impact the company's M&A or expansion plans?
What market signals does the appointment of a former Welltower CFO as Lead Independent Director send to investors?






























