Heart Rhythm Society Names New CEO to Assume Position in March 2026

Christina Wurster, Current CEO of the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Returns to Heart Rhythm Society

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 11, 2025 – The Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) announces the selection of Christina Wurster, MBA, CAE, as its next Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey to end death and suffering due to heart rhythm disorders. Wurster returns to HRS, where she previously served as Chief Strategy Officer before leaving to become CEO for the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM).

Wurster will officially assume the HRS CEO role in March 2026, succeeding Patricia Blake, FASAE, CAE, who will retire at the end of this year after six and a half years at HRS. Blake’s tenure included guiding HRS through the COVID-19 pandemic, growing membership by over 30%, increasing HRS’ global impact, and diversifying revenue. Wurster will work closely with Blake and the HRS senior leadership team in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.

“I am thrilled to return to the talented and dedicated heart rhythm community to continue advancing cardiovascular care,” said Wurster. “During my time away, I watched with admiration as HRS leaders and members drove innovation and improved patient outcomes. I knew I wanted to rejoin this extraordinary team that is transforming life-saving care. Together, we will build on this momentum and chart the next chapter of growth and global leadership.”

During her five-year tenure at SMFM, Wurster strengthened the organization through a member-centered leadership approach. Under her direction:

• Membership increased by 40%.
• The operating budget grew by 160%, driven by diversified revenue and global expansion.
• SMFM launched its first-ever peer-reviewed journal, PREGNANCY.
• Advocacy efforts broadened to elevate the voice of maternal fetal medicine professionals worldwide.

“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Christina back to HRS,” said HRS President, Mina K. Chung, MD, FHRS. “She left an indelible mark during her previous tenure, and her expanded leadership experience positions her perfectly to guide HRS into the future. With the field of electrophysiology evolving rapidly, the timing of her return couldn’t be better. We have immense confidence in Christina and look forward to the transformative impact she will make as CEO.”

As HRS prepares for this transition, the organization remains committed to advancing research, education, and evidence-based policies that improve care for patients with heart rhythm disorders. With Wurster’s return, HRS is poised to build on its distinguished legacy and accelerate progress in the years ahead.

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About the Heart Rhythm Society

The Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) is the international leader in science, education, and advocacy for cardiac arrhythmia professionals and patients and is the primary information resource on heart rhythm disorders. Its mission is to improve the care of patients by promoting research, education, and optimal healthcare policies and standards. Its vision is to end death and suffering due to heart rhythm disorders. Incorporated in 1979 and based in Washington, D.C., HRS has a membership of more than 9,600 heart rhythm professionals from 94 countries. For more information, visit www.HRSonline.org.