Officials at the Mayo Clinic Health System — Albert Lea and Austin announced a significant shift in their administration Thursday.

Adam Rees, chief administrative officer, declared his resignation Wednesday, and his final day will be Feb. 22. Rees, who has been with the medical center in Austin for six years and with Mayo Clinic a total of 25, will be the president of Essentia Health’s Central Region, which is based in Brainerd, Minn., and also has locations spanning Northern Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Idaho.

“Adam has been an integral part in helping the medical center in Austin implement many new programs and services,” said Mark Ciota, M.D., CEO at Mayo Clinic Health System — Albert Lea and Austin. “Even though his resignation provided many mixed emotions, we are very grateful for his service here, and truly congratulate him on this wonderful opportunity for professional growth.”

Rees was involved in many community activities, including the Austin Chamber of Commerce as a board member, co-chair of Mower Refreshed, Vision 2020, Rotary, church worship team member and Sunday school teacher.

Ciota notes Rees’s resignation was not related to the recent integration of Albert Lea and Austin. “Our leadership structure will be evaluated to determine the best option for his replacement,” Dr. Ciota said.