Des Moines University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Des Moines University has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, human resources, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Des Moines University prepares aspiring medical and health care professionals through rigorous graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on experience and expert faculty to foster leaders in the health sciences.

Leadership Roles at Des Moines University

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Angela Franklin
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Mark Peiffer
  • President - Brian Vu
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Eric Roesler
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Maureen De Armond
  • Angela Franklin - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Angela Franklin, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Des Moines University, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the institution. Franklin guides the university's mission to prepare health science professionals, ensuring alignment with market demands and educational best practices. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence and innovation across all three colleges. Franklin oversees the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance the university's reputation and impact in health care education. By championing small class sizes and robust clinical opportunities, Angela Franklin ensures students receive comprehensive training for successful careers. The President & Chief Executive Officer also engages with external stakeholders, building partnerships that support the university's growth and community outreach efforts. Franklin's vision drives the institution's commitment to producing highly skilled and ethical leaders in medicine and health care.

    Mark Peiffer - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Mark Peiffer, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Des Moines University, directs the financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the institution. Peiffer oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, ensuring the university's financial health and sustainability. This leadership position involves managing investments, debt, and revenue streams to support academic programs and infrastructure development. Peiffer ensures compliance with all financial regulations and implements robust internal controls to safeguard university assets. By providing critical financial insights, Mark Peiffer supports informed decision-making across all departments. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer also collaborates with other executives to develop long-term financial strategies that align with the university's growth objectives. Peiffer's expertise in financial management is essential for maintaining the operational capacity and future expansion of Des Moines University's health science programs.

    Brian Vu - President

    Brian Vu, the President at Des Moines University, drives the strategic vision and operational leadership for the institution. Vu is responsible for guiding the university's mission to prepare future health care professionals through its diverse graduate programs. This executive role involves overseeing academic affairs, student services, and institutional advancement to foster a dynamic learning environment. Vu ensures that the university's focus on small class sizes, expert faculty, and clinical opportunities remains central to its educational model. By fostering collaboration among colleges and departments, Brian Vu enhances the integrated approach to health sciences education. The President also engages with the broader community and industry partners to strengthen the university's impact and reach. Vu's leadership is instrumental in advancing Des Moines University's commitment to producing skilled and compassionate leaders in medicine and health care.

    Eric Roesler - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Eric Roesler, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Des Moines University, manages all aspects of human capital strategy and employee relations. Roesler develops and executes programs that support the university's faculty and staff, fostering a productive and engaging work environment. This role involves overseeing talent acquisition, retention, compensation, and benefits to attract and keep top-tier professionals. Roesler ensures HR policies and practices align with the university's mission and values, supporting its commitment to small class sizes and expert faculty. By driving initiatives that promote professional development and well-being, Eric Roesler contributes to the overall success of the institution. The Chief Human Resources Officer also plays a critical part in organizational development and change management, ensuring the university remains agile and responsive to evolving needs. Roesler's leadership in human resources strengthens the foundation upon which Des Moines University builds its educational programs.
    Eric Roesler

    Maureen De Armond - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Maureen De Armond, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Des Moines University, leads the strategic direction for all human resources functions. De Armond focuses on cultivating a supportive and high-performing organizational culture that aligns with the university's educational mission. This role encompasses talent management, employee engagement, and the development of comprehensive HR policies. De Armond ensures that human resources initiatives effectively support the recruitment and retention of expert faculty and dedicated staff, crucial for maintaining small class sizes and hands-on learning experiences. By championing employee development programs, Maureen De Armond enhances the professional growth of the university's workforce. The Chief Human Resources Officer also oversees compliance with labor laws and promotes equitable practices across the institution. De Armond's strategic oversight of human resources strengthens the operational framework of Des Moines University, enabling its continued success in health care education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Des Moines University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Des Moines University?
    Des Moines University is led by Angela Franklin (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mark Peiffer (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Brian Vu (President).
    Who is part of Des Moines University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Des Moines University includes leaders such as Angela Franklin (President & Chief Executive Officer), Mark Peiffer (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Brian Vu (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Des Moines University have?
    Des Moines University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Des Moines University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Des Moines University includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.