GARDEN VALLEY, Texas– Mercy Ships, a global nonprofit that delivers surgical and medical care to underserved communities through volunteer-staffed hospital ships, today announced the appointment of Michelle White, M.B. Ch.B., Ph.D., D.C.H., F.R.C.A., as Chief Executive Officer.
Dr. White brings more than 17 years of leadership experience across healthcare, missions, and academia, along with nearly two decades of service to Mercy Ships as both a volunteer and a board member. She currently serves as an anesthesiologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London and is expected to assume her new role early next year, following her transition from the hospital.
“Dr. Michelle White lives out the values and vision that have defined Mercy Ships for nearly 50 years,” said Gary Brown, Board Chair of Mercy Ships. “As a valued MSI Board member, we have seen her medical expertise, leadership skills, and deep commitment to Jesus. Her long-standing service as a volunteer with our community makes her the ideal leader Mercy Ships needs for the years ahead.”
White first volunteered with Mercy Ships in 2005 and later spent five years on board the Africa Mercy in leadership roles including Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Director of Medical Capacity Building. She is a Trustee of Mercy Ships UK and a member of the Mercy Ships International Board of Directors.
“After nearly twenty years with Mercy Ships, from volunteer to board member, I’ve experienced firsthand the incredible impact of our mission to deliver hope and healing,” said Dr. White. “I’m honored to bring both my healthcare expertise and deep knowledge of this organization into the CEO role as we continue transforming lives and strengthening healthcare systems across Africa.”
Alongside her Mercy Ships service, White is an award-winning anesthesiologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, where she leads complex surgical services. Her career includes spearheading multi-country health initiatives in Africa, partnering with governments, NGOs, and donors to expand surgical safety and training programs. She has authored more than 70 peer-reviewed publications.
Dr. White succeeds Interim CEO and Board Chair Gary Brown, who has led the organization during the transition. CarterBaldwin Executive Search supported the board in the selection process.
