Robert C. Merchant

Mr. Merchant previously served as the Executive Director, Ambulatory Care Services, where he led healthcare delivery to Veterans across VAGLAHS’ two ambulatory care centers and eight community-based outpatient clinics in Kern, Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. As the Chief of Strategic and Facility Planning from 2018 to 2020, he oversaw implementation of the West Los Angeles Draft Master Plan. Mr. Merchant has also served  the Department’s headquarters as Special Assistant to the VA Secretary, Executive Assistant to the VA Chief of Staff, and Special Advisor to the VA Deputy Secretary. He has held senior positions at the Department of State in both Baghdad, Iraq and Washington, DC. His civilian awards include the Department of the Army Superior Civilian Service Award, Department of State Superior Honor Award, and Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary’s Commendation.  Mr. Merchant holds a Master of Laws from The George Washington University Law School, a Juris Doctor from Penn State University’s Dickinson School of Law, and a Bachelor of Arts from Juniata College. Mr. Merchant served in the United States Navy Reserve for 12 years and is an Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom Veteran. His military awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.