MercyOne Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

MercyOne has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, clinical operations, human resources, financial management, and legal compliance.

Committed to advancing community wellness, MercyOne delivers comprehensive health care services through a connected network of facilities. This organization prioritizes patient-centered care and regional health outcomes across Iowa.

Leadership Roles at MercyOne

  • Chief Executive Officer - Aaron Flugum
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Dan Aten
  • Vice President & Chief Executive Officer - Marcia Hendricks
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Robert Baxter
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Iowa Region - Arun Arora
  • Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - Stephen Gary
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Jesica Hanson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Vanessa Freitag
  • Chief Human Resources Officer & Vice President - Jackie Luecht
  • Chief Legal Officer - Hannah Campbell
  • Aaron Flugum - Chief Executive Officer

    Aaron Flugum, the Chief Executive Officer at MercyOne, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire health care network. Flugum architects long-term growth initiatives that expand access to medical services across the Iowa region. By aligning clinical excellence with operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all facilities maintain high standards of patient care. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the board to refine service delivery models and improve community health outcomes. Aaron Flugum monitors market trends to identify opportunities for system integration and technological advancement. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable development. The executive maintains a focus on fiscal responsibility while expanding the reach of the health system. Ultimately, Flugum secures the future of the organization by fostering a culture of innovation and compassionate service within every hospital and clinic.

    Dan Aten - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Dan Aten, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MercyOne, manages the daily administrative functions and high-level governance of the health system. Aten executes complex operational strategies that streamline patient intake and care coordination across the network. The President & Chief Executive Officer evaluates service line performance to ensure alignment with the mission of providing accessible health care. By coordinating with department heads, the President & Chief Executive Officer optimizes resource allocation to support clinical staff. Dan Aten leads initiatives that enhance the quality of care in rural and urban settings alike. This role requires balancing immediate operational needs with the broader goals of the organization. Through proactive management, Aten improves the efficiency of health care delivery. The executive maintains a strong focus on patient safety and regulatory compliance. Ultimately, Aten strengthens the operational foundation of the entire health system.

    Marcia Hendricks - Vice President & Chief Executive Officer

    Marcia Hendricks, the Vice President & Chief Executive Officer at MercyOne, oversees the integration of specialized medical services within the broader health care framework. Hendricks architects programs that improve patient outcomes through advanced clinical protocols and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Vice President & Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that expand the scope of specialty care available to local communities. By managing relationships with medical staff and external partners, the Vice President & Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent service quality. Marcia Hendricks evaluates clinical data to refine treatment pathways and enhance the overall patient experience. This leadership role involves identifying gaps in service delivery and implementing solutions that bolster the reputation of the health system. Through strategic planning, Hendricks supports the expansion of medical capabilities. Ultimately, Hendricks ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of clinical excellence and patient-centered innovation.
    Marcia Hendricks

    Robert Baxter - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Robert Baxter, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MercyOne, leads the expansion of health care infrastructure and facility development. Baxter architects capital improvement projects that modernize medical equipment and physical environments across the network. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives efforts to increase capacity in high-demand service areas, ensuring that communities receive timely care. By collaborating with regional stakeholders, the President & Chief Executive Officer aligns facility growth with the evolving needs of the population. Robert Baxter monitors construction and renovation timelines to ensure that all projects meet strict safety and quality standards. This leadership role involves managing large-scale investments that support the long-term viability of the health system. Through careful planning, Baxter enhances the physical footprint of the organization. Ultimately, Baxter secures the infrastructure necessary to provide high-quality health care services to a growing patient base.
    Robert Baxter

    Arun Arora - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Iowa Region

    Arun Arora, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Iowa Region at MercyOne, manages the financial health and fiscal planning for the eastern portion of the network. Arora architects budgeting processes that allocate resources to critical clinical and administrative functions. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Iowa Region drives financial performance by monitoring revenue cycles and controlling operational costs. By analyzing regional economic trends, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Iowa Region ensures that the organization remains financially sustainable while serving the community. Arun Arora collaborates with regional leadership to identify investment opportunities that improve service delivery. This leadership role involves rigorous financial reporting and risk management to protect the assets of the health system. Through strategic financial oversight, Arora supports the growth of regional health services. Ultimately, Arora ensures fiscal stability for the eastern operations.

    Stephen Gary - Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

    Stephen Gary, the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at MercyOne, oversees the enterprise-wide financial strategy and capital allocation. Gary architects long-term financial models that support the expansion of health care services and technological investments. The Vice President and Chief Financial Officer drives the development of annual budgets and monitors the financial health of the entire system. By managing treasury functions and investment portfolios, the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer ensures that the organization maintains the liquidity required for ongoing operations. Stephen Gary collaborates with the board to communicate financial performance and strategic goals. This leadership role involves evaluating the financial impact of new clinical programs and service lines. Through disciplined fiscal management, Gary supports the overall mission of the health system. Ultimately, Gary provides the financial foundation necessary for the organization to continue its legacy of community service.

    Jesica Hanson - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Jesica Hanson, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at MercyOne, manages the financial planning and analysis for specific service lines within the health system. Hanson architects cost-saving initiatives that improve the profitability of outpatient and specialty care departments. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer drives revenue cycle improvements by optimizing billing processes and insurance reimbursements. By conducting detailed financial audits, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures that all departments adhere to budgetary constraints. Jesica Hanson works closely with clinical directors to align financial resources with patient care needs. This leadership role involves identifying opportunities for operational efficiency that do not compromise the quality of medical services. Through careful financial stewardship, Hanson supports the long-term growth of the organization. Ultimately, Hanson ensures that the financial operations of the health system remain transparent and effective.

    Vanessa Freitag - Chief Operating Officer

    Vanessa Freitag, the Chief Operating Officer at MercyOne, manages the day-to-day logistics and internal processes that support clinical operations. Freitag architects workflows that improve the efficiency of hospital departments and outpatient services. The Chief Operating Officer drives initiatives to reduce wait times and optimize patient flow throughout the health system. By overseeing supply chain management and facility maintenance, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that medical teams have the resources required for effective care. Vanessa Freitag monitors operational metrics to identify bottlenecks and implement corrective actions. This leadership role involves coordinating across various departments to maintain high standards of service delivery. Through rigorous process improvement, Freitag enhances the overall productivity of the organization. The executive focuses on creating a seamless experience for patients and staff. Ultimately, Freitag ensures that the operational backbone of the health system remains robust and responsive.

    Jackie Luecht - Chief Human Resources Officer & Vice President

    Jackie Luecht, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Vice President at MercyOne, directs the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the entire health system. Luecht architects programs that attract and retain skilled medical professionals, nurses, and administrative staff. The Chief Human Resources Officer & Vice President drives initiatives that foster a positive workplace culture and support employee well-being. By managing compensation structures and professional development opportunities, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Vice President ensures that the organization remains a top employer in the health care sector. Jackie Luecht oversees labor relations and compliance with employment regulations to maintain a stable workforce. This leadership role involves aligning human capital strategies with the broader mission of providing compassionate care. Through effective talent management, Luecht strengthens the organizational capacity to deliver high-quality services. Ultimately, Luecht builds a resilient and motivated team dedicated to patient health.
    Jackie Luecht
    Hannah Campbell, the Chief Legal Officer at MercyOne, directs the legal strategy and regulatory compliance efforts for the entire health care network. Campbell architects policies that ensure all facilities operate within the bounds of state and federal health care laws. The Chief Legal Officer drives risk management initiatives that protect the organization from litigation and regulatory penalties. By overseeing contract negotiations and corporate governance, the Chief Legal Officer ensures that all partnerships and service agreements align with the mission of the health system. Hannah Campbell provides legal guidance to the board and executive team on complex issues related to patient privacy and medical ethics. This leadership role involves monitoring changes in health care legislation to proactively adjust organizational practices. Through diligent legal oversight, Campbell maintains the integrity of the health system. Ultimately, Campbell safeguards the reputation and operational continuity of the organization.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding MercyOne Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads MercyOne?
    MercyOne is led by Aaron Flugum (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Dan Aten (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Marcia Hendricks (Vice President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of MercyOne’s executive team?
    The executive team of MercyOne includes leaders such as Aaron Flugum (Chief Executive Officer), Dan Aten (President & Chief Executive Officer), Marcia Hendricks (Vice President & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does MercyOne have?
    MercyOne has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in MercyOne’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of MercyOne includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Vice President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Iowa Region.