GARDEN VALLEY, TX — September 15, 2025 — Mercy Ships, the global nonprofit organization renowned for providing transformational surgeries and medical care to underserved communities through its volunteer-staffed hospital ships, has announced the appointment of Dr. Michelle White, MB ChB, PhD, DCH, FRCA, as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Leadership Praise and Vision
“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 makes her the ideal leader Mercy Ships needs for the years ahead.”
Dr. White’s Journey and Commitment
Dr. White expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “After nearly twenty years with Mercy Ships—from volunteer to board member—I’ve witnessed the profound impact of our mission to deliver hope and healing. I’m honored to apply my medical and organizational experience as we continue transforming lives and strengthening healthcare systems across Africa.”
Bringing over 17 years of leadership across healthcare, missions, and academia, Dr. White offers a rare combination of clinical excellence, nonprofit governance, and faith-driven servant leadership. She joined Mercy Ships in 2005 as a volunteer and later served five years aboard the Africa Mercy in senior medical leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Director of Medical Capacity Building. A native of the United Kingdom, she also serves as a Trustee of Mercy Ships UK and as a member of the Mercy Ships International Board of Directors.
Beyond her service with Mercy Ships, Dr. White is an award-winning anesthesiologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London—Europe’s leading children’s hospital—where she leads complex surgical services. Her career also includes leading multi-country health system initiatives across Africa, collaborating with Ministers of Health, NGOs, and donors to expand surgical safety and training programs. She has authored more than 70 peer-reviewed publications and continues to advance operational excellence in global health.
Transition and Next Steps
Dr. White will assume her role as CEO early next year, following her transition from Great Ormond Street Hospital. She succeeds Interim CEO and Board Chair Gary Brown, who guided the organization through this leadership transition. CarterBaldwin Executive Search supported Mercy Ships in the selection process.
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.
