In July 2023, Brian Farley took on the role of General Counsel and Secretary at Acadia Healthcare, a leading provider in the mental health sector. His appointment was covered in industry press and marks a significant step for both Farley and the healthcare organization, which aims to expand its reach and revenue in the coming years. As General Counsel, Farley oversees a robust team of attorneys responsible for managing all aspects of Acadia’s legal affairs. This includes a wide array of responsibilities, such as securities law, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, litigation, labor and employment matters, as well as compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.
Prior to his current position, Brian Farley was the Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary for GoHealth, a prominent player in the Medicare Advantage marketplace. At GoHealth, he spearheaded legal, regulatory, compliance, and cybersecurity initiatives, while also leading the legal efforts for the company’s initial public offering in 2020. His extensive experience in the healthcare sector is further bolstered by previous leadership roles at Allscripts, Motorola Mobility, and Level 3 Communications, making him well-equipped to navigate the complexities of legal affairs in the healthcare landscape. Additional professional profiles and background information are available on Crunchbase and F6S.
Acadia Healthcare has established itself as the largest stand-alone behavioral health provider in the United States, boasting a market capitalization of $7 billion and a workforce of around 23,000 employees across 250 facilities in 39 states. Under Farley’s guidance, the company aims to significantly increase its annual revenue from $2.6 billion to as much as $5 billion by 2028. The strategic vision laid out by Acadia’s CEO, Chris Hunter, and the executive leadership team emphasizes the company’s commitment to becoming the indispensable provider for high-acuity and complex-need patient populations. Acadia plans to achieve its ambitious revenue goals through various avenues, including the construction of new facilities, the establishment of joint ventures, strategic acquisitions, and technological investments.
Brian Farley’s extensive legal background and strategic insight are expected to be invaluable as Acadia Healthcare navigates this growth phase. His predecessor, Chris Howard, who served as Acadia’s legal chief for 12 years, will remain as an advisor until February 2024 to ensure a smooth transition. This continuity is critical, particularly given the rapid changes and challenges in the healthcare sector.
As Acadia Healthcare moves forward, Farley’s responsibilities will not be limited to legal compliance alone. His role as a strategic advisor to the executive team and Board of Directors positions him as a key player in shaping the company’s future. The landscape of healthcare is evolving rapidly, and with mental health gaining increasing recognition as a vital component of overall well-being, Acadia is well-poised to leverage this shift in societal awareness.
In conclusion, Brian Farley’s appointment as General Counsel at Acadia Healthcare represents not only a pivotal moment in his career but also a significant opportunity for Acadia to enhance its leadership in the mental health sector. As the company embarks on an ambitious growth trajectory, leveraging Farley’s legal expertise will be essential in navigating the complexities of the healthcare industry and achieving its financial objectives.