Joe Vessey, chief financial officer for Whidbey General Hospital, is leaving after four years on the job.

Hospital CEO Tom Tomasino made the announcement during the hospital board’s regular meeting Monday night. Tomasino acknowledged Vessey for the work he has done in keeping the hospital financially sound during a period of significant challenges.

Tomasino explained that Vessey chose to come to a nonprofit hospital after working at a for-profit hospital.

“He wanted to make a difference in patient lives and not just choose the bottom line,” he said.

Each commissioner also took a turn to salute Vessey. Commissioner Grethe Cammermeyer thanked him for being very tolerant and patient in explaining finances and budgets to her.

“You have the absolute respect of the medical staff for everything you’ve done,” said Dr. Gabe Barrio, chief of staff.

Vessey is leaving on a positive note. He announced that the hospital received a very low rate, a net interest cost of 3.96 percent, on an $8.05 million limited tax general obligation bond that was issued last month.

While Tomasino announced Vessey is leaving “for a new challenge,” Vessey said he couldn’t divulge where he’s going.