Children’s Mercy Kansas City President and CEO Announces Retirement

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The president and CEO of Children’s Mercy has announced his plans to retire after more than 40 years at the helm of health care.

Paul Kempinski has experienced considerable growth during his tenure at Children’s Mercy, including launching Illuminate, opening the Children’s Mercy Research Institute, expanding Children’s Mercy’s regional growth, and receiving national recognition for nine of its specialties, ranked among the best programs in the United States.

“We thank Paul for his dedicated leadership as CEO over the past six years,” said Bill Krueger, Chairman of the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors.

“He has taken our organization to new heights and maintained an unwavering focus on providing extraordinary care to every child we serve.” We are grateful for the indelible impact Paul has had on Children’s Mercy.

The board of directors has begun the search for a new president and CEO. The research process will include engagement of clinical, research, academic and philanthropic partners, as well as community stakeholders, according to a press release.

Kempinski will remain CEO until the next CEO is appointed and onboarded and to ensure a smooth transition of roles. He said he is proud of what Children’s Mercy staff has accomplished during his tenure as president.

“It has been an honor to serve as president and CEO of one of the nation’s best children’s health systems. This place is extremely special and a tremendous asset to the community,” Kempinski said.

“I am proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to continuing to help improve children’s health and remaining actively engaged in the Kansas City community.” Now is the perfect time to pass the baton to the next CEO to lead Children’s Mercy’s next phase of growth.