Children’s Mercy Names Michelle Wimes Permanent Chief People Officer
Children’s Mercy is proud to announce that Michelle Wimes, JD, has been appointed as the permanent Chief People Officer, effective immediately. Since stepping into the interim role in July, Michelle has brought authenticity, strategic insight and a deep commitment to people and culture.
“Michelle brings a visionary approach to leadership—anchored in empathy and excellence,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “Her ability to build authentic connections across our workforce, patient families and community partners has made her a trusted voice and a powerful agent of change. Michelle has already redefined how we think about people and purpose, and we are thrilled to see her step into this role permanently.”
Michelle previously served as the organization’s Senior Vice President and Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for five years.
She holds a J.D. degree from Tulane Law School, completed graduate studies at the University of Seville in Spain, and earned undergraduate degrees from the University of Missouri in Communication Arts and Spanish Language and Literature.
Before joining Children’s Mercy, she worked at Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC, one of the nation’s largest labor and employment law firms where, as Chief Diversity and Professional Development Officer, she led efforts to attract, develop and promote a diverse group of attorneys across the firm’s 53 offices.
She also previously practiced law at marquee law firms in Kansas City, handling employment, immigration and civil rights litigation, providing counsel to public school districts and using her language skills in Spanish and Portuguese to defend clients in suits filed in U.S. and Latin American courts.
“This role is a natural extension of my journey,” said Michelle Wimes, J.D., Chief People Officer, Children’s Mercy. “I’ve always believed that when we invest in people, we elevate everything—our care, our culture, our future. I’m honored to continue this work with the incredible team at Children’s Mercy.”
Michelle is a champion for fostering inclusive environments and a catalyst for change. Her appointment reinforces Children’s Mercy’s commitment to a workplace where every team member feels seen, valued and empowered.
“Michelle is an incredible human being that leads with both heart and vision—and the shadow she casts as a leader not only inspires action, but transforms those around her,” said Tom Wright, retired Children’s Mercy EVP, Chief Human Resources Officer. “At Children’s Mercy, everything they do is for the children and families they serve—and that includes attracting, retaining, developing and empowering the incredible people who make it all possible.”