COLUMBIA, S.C. — Governor Henry McMaster announced that the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) Director Robert M. Kerr will retire after 22 years with the agency.

Kerr served as director of the agency from 2003 to 2007 under Gov. Mark Sanford’s administration. In 2021, he assumed the position of director following a nomination by Gov. McMaster.

“He has transformed and modernized our state’s Medicaid program and has led efforts to improve service, efficiency, and health outcomes at agencies across state government,” Gov. Henry McMaster said in a statement. “South Carolina is a better place today because of the contributions and accomplishments of Director Kerr. He will be missed.”

In his resignation letter to Gov. McMaster, Director Kerr wrote, “I am convinced this agency has the best workforce in the state… It has been my great pleasure and honor to serve the citizens of this state in your administration.”

According to the governor’s office, McMaster will make further announcements about the leadership of the agency soon. The state Senate will need to confirm any nomination.