Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia announced on May 13 that Jesse A. Taylor, MD, has been selected as the new Surgeon-in-Chief and Chair of the Department of Surgery, effective July 1, 2026. Taylor currently serves as Chief of the Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Oral Surgery at CHOP.
The appointment follows a national search to succeed Dr. N. Scott Adzick, who is stepping down after serving as Surgeon-in-Chief for 31 years but will remain at CHOP as a surgeon and faculty member while continuing to co-direct the Richard D. Wood Jr. Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment.
Joseph W. St. Geme III, MD, Physician-in-Chief and President of the CHOP Practice Association said: “Throughout his tenure at CHOP, Dr. Adzick has built a formidable foundation for pediatric surgery, expanding the department, establishing multidisciplinary centers and programs, and securing the resources, philanthropy, and funding support to sustain innovation and outstanding care… we are also fortunate that Dr. Taylor, an accomplished surgeon, visionary leader, and dedicated researcher will continue to build on his legacy.”
CHOP reports that its surgical team includes 140 specialists who perform high-volume advanced procedures using minimally invasive techniques for rare diseases. The hospital is consistently ranked among top pediatric hospitals by U.S News & World Report.
Adzick said: “One of the greatest privileges of my surgical career has been recruiting, mentoring, and promoting outstanding surgeons who have elevated our program to national prominence… Dr. Taylor has been instrumental in advancing surgical care for children.”
Taylor treats children with craniofacial differences at CHOP’s Craniofacial Program; he also participates in professional societies internationally and contributes research in cleft surgery outcomes.
Taylor said: “I’m honored to assume the role of CHOP’s Surgeon-in-Chief at an institution that champions diligence, compassion, and collaborative cross-disciplinary care… I will work to accelerate innovation optimize recovery and deliver top outcomes for every child and family.”
Taylor joined Cincinnati Children’s Hospital faculty in 2007 before moving to CHOP in 2010; he was promoted through academic ranks over subsequent years.
