KC Reporter

Michelle Wimes, JD, has been named the permanent Chief People Officer at Children’s Mercy, effective immediately. Wimes had served in the interim role since July and was previously Senior Vice President and Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for five years.

Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Children’s Mercy, commented on her appointment: “Michelle brings a visionary approach to leadership—anchored in empathy and excellence. 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.”

Wimes holds a J.D. 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 as well as Spanish Language and Literature.

Prior to joining Children’s Mercy, she worked at Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC as Chief Diversity and Professional Development Officer. There she led initiatives focused on attracting and developing diverse attorneys across 53 offices nationwide. She also practiced law at several Kansas City firms where she handled employment law cases as well as immigration and civil rights litigation. Her language skills in Spanish and Portuguese were used in legal matters involving U.S. and Latin American courts.

“This role is a natural extension of my journey,” said Michelle Wimes. “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.”

Tom Wright, retired Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Children’s Mercy also spoke about Wimes’ leadership: “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. 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.”

Wimes’ appointment underscores Children’s Mercy’s ongoing focus on fostering an inclusive workplace where staff feel valued.