Southwest Montana News

Governor Greg Gianforte has announced a leadership change at the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). Charlie Brereton will take over as director from Adam Meier, who is stepping down on August 12 due to a family health issue.

Reflecting on Meier's tenure, Governor Gianforte said, “Adam’s expertise, leadership, and heart for public service have been outstanding assets to our administration and the people of Montana.” Under Meier's direction since February 2021, DPHHS made significant strides in various areas including addiction treatment services and pandemic response. Meier also played a key role in implementing HB 702, a law against discrimination based on vaccination status.

Meier expressed gratitude for his time with DPHHS: “I am grateful to Governor Gianforte for the opportunity to lead an amazing team of dedicated public servants working to improve service to Montana’s most vulnerable populations.”

Charlie Brereton, who has served as DPHHS chief of staff and health care policy advisor under Governor Gianforte since January 2021, will assume the role of director. Governor Gianforte praised Brereton's abilities: “Charlie has a knack for leadership and a superior ability to develop relationships.”

Brereton expressed enthusiasm about his new position: “It’s an honor to serve the people of Montana as director of DPHHS and build upon the progress we’ve made.” Before joining state government, Brereton worked in national health care policy roles including serving on Senator Lamar Alexander's health policy team.