Michael Backus
About Michael Backus
Michael Backus serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Oswego Health, where he has worked since 2023. He has a background in leadership roles across various organizations and advocates for team development and healthcare access in Central New York.
Current Role at Oswego Health
Michael Backus serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Oswego Health, a position he has held since January 2023. He previously joined the organization in September 2020 as Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President. In his current role, he focuses on advancing healthcare access and infrastructure planning in Central New York.
Previous Experience at Oswego Health
Before becoming President and CEO, Michael Backus worked at Oswego Health as Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President from 2020 to 2023. His leadership during this period contributed to the organization's operational strategies and initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services in the region.
Education and Professional Development
Michael Backus holds a master's degree in Public Administration from Norwich University, which he completed in 2012. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Le Moyne College in 2006. Additionally, he participated in the AHA NextGen Leaders program and the American Hospital Association NextGen Fellowship Program, focusing on developing future leaders in healthcare.
Leadership and Advocacy
Michael Backus advocates for a leadership style that encourages team members to challenge ideas and fosters a culture of learning and adaptability. He emphasizes coalition building and team development, highlighting the importance of collaboration and public affairs in effective leadership. His commitment to healthcare access and infrastructure planning is evident in his various roles and board memberships.
Recognition and Board Memberships
Michael Backus has received several recognitions, including being named a 40-Under-40 'Rising Star' by the Central New York Business Journal and City & State Magazine. He was awarded the inaugural 'Friend of the First' award by The Palladium-Times in 2018. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS) and ConnextCare, and he is a member of the Board of Regents at Le Moyne College.