Dr. Tomislav Mihaljevic serves as the CEO and President of Cleveland Clinic, where he leads a globally integrated healthcare system dedicated to clinical excellence and innovation. As the inaugural holder of the Morton L. Mandel CEO Chair, he oversees a sprawling network of facilities that spans from the main campus in Cleveland to locations worldwide. His leadership is defined by a steadfast commitment to making the Clinic the best place for care anywhere and the best place to work in healthcare.

Before ascending to his current role, Dr. Mihaljevic established a reputation as a world-renowned cardiovascular surgeon, having performed nearly 3,000 life-saving operations. He previously served as the CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, where he successfully managed the facility's opening and cemented its international standing in patient experience and research. His transition from a highly skilled surgeon to a global executive reflects a career-long dedication to the mission of caring for life and educating those who serve.

A native of Croatia and a proud U.S. citizen, Dr. Mihaljevic’s journey in medicine began with rigorous training in Zurich, Switzerland, followed by a historic residency at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He made history as the first foreign medical graduate accepted as an intern at that institution and later held a prestigious academic appointment at Harvard Medical School. Since joining the Cleveland Clinic in 2004, he has contributed extensively to medical literature, authoring or co-authoring over 140 peer-reviewed articles.

Beyond his clinical and administrative achievements, Dr. Mihaljevic is recognized for his profound sense of civic responsibility and his focus on health equity. He has championed critical public health initiatives within the Greater Cleveland community, specifically addressing urgent issues such as maternal health and local lead poisoning. His visionary leadership ensures that the benefits of advanced science are accessible to all, reflecting the core values of inclusion and humanity.

The Maltz Museum is proud to honor Dr. Mihaljevic with the 2026 Maltz Heritage Award for his transformative impact on both regional and global health. His dedication to an inclusive future and his unwavering compassion embody the very principles this award seeks to celebrate. By elevating the standards of medical care and community well-being, he continues to inspire a healthier, more equitable world for everyone.