CarterBaldwin Executive Search is proud to partner again with Mercy Ships, the international nonprofit operating the world’s largest fleet of civilian hospital ships, in the appointment of Dr. Michelle White as their new Chief Executive Officer. She is expected to assume this role early next year.
A long-standing member of the Mercy Ships family, White first volunteered for Mercy Ships in 2005 and later served for five years on board the Africa Mercy® in leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Director of Medical Capacity Building.
In addition to her Mercy Ships service, White is an award-winning Anesthesiologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, Europe’s leading children’s hospital. Her career also includes spearheading multi-country health system initiatives in Africa, partnering with Ministers of Health, NGOs, and donors to expand surgical safety and training programs.
With more than 17 years of leadership experience across healthcare, missions, and academia, she brings a unique blend of clinical excellence, nonprofit governance, and faith-driven servant leadership to the CEO role.
“Dr. Michelle White lives out the values and vision that have defined Mercy Ships for nearly 50 years,” said Board Chair Gary Brown. “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 make her the ideal leader Mercy Ships needs for the years ahead.”
White holds a PhD in implementation science and global health from King’s College, a Diploma in Child Health from the Royal College of Physicians, and an MBChB (equivalent to an MD in the US) from Bristol University. She currently serves as a Trustee of Mercy Ships UK and as a member of the Mercy Ships International Board of Directors.
Click here for the complete announcement from Mercy Ships.
About Mercy Ships
Founded in 1978, Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.
Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care.
