Whidbey General Hospital is moving forward with its search for a new hospital chief executive officer.

The hospital board of commissioners Monday night selected Korn Ferry International, a large executive recruitment firm based in Los Angeles, to aid in the search for a CEO instead of KL Kinglesy, a smaller firm based in Walnut Creek, Calif.

The choice between the two companies was “a toss up,” according to the commissioners; however, KL Kingsley will be unavailable for three weeks in the middle of the planned recruitment process.

Only four individuals applied for the CEO position at Whidbey General, prompting the commissioners to expand their search into a nation-wide recruitment effort.

“Time is of the essence,” Commissioner Anne Tarrant said. “We need to make a decision. I would opt for the full search.”

Following the board’s unanimous approval of signing a contract with Korn Ferry International for a nation-wide search, board member Roger Case lauded the board for its forward movement.

“Very good. That’s a step in the right direction,” he said.”

The hospital is replacing Scott Rhine, who retired late last year.