Michigan Medicine Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Michigan Medicine has 6 executives leading key functions including operations, technology, digital information, and clinical practice.

Driven by a commitment to advancing health, Michigan Medicine operates as the academic medical center for the University of Michigan, focusing on patient care, research, and education to improve health outcomes across the state and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Michigan Medicine

  • Chief Operating Officer - Svetlana Dembitskaya
  • Associate Chief Operating Officer - Michelle Fernamberg
  • Chief Operating Officer C.S. Mott Children's Hospital University of Michigan - Constance O'Malley
  • Chief Technology Officer - Timothy Calahan
  • Chief Digital & Information Officer - Anika Gardenhire
  • Professor of Pediatrics, Medical School - Chris Dickinson
  • Svetlana Dembitskaya - Chief Operating Officer

    Svetlana Dembitskaya, the Chief Operating Officer at Michigan Medicine, directs the operational framework for the health system's core functions. Overseeing daily activities, Dembitskaya ensures efficient resource allocation and service delivery across various departments. This leadership role involves optimizing workflows and implementing strategic initiatives to enhance patient care quality and operational throughput. By focusing on process improvement, Dembitskaya drives operational excellence and supports the overall mission of Michigan Medicine. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to managing departmental budgets and fostering a culture of accountability. Svetlana Dembitskaya's strategic oversight guarantees that operational strategies align with the broader goals of patient well-being and institutional growth. This executive ensures seamless integration of clinical services with administrative support systems, contributing to the system's reputation for comprehensive healthcare.

    Michelle Fernamberg - Associate Chief Operating Officer

    Michelle Fernamberg, the Associate Chief Operating Officer at Michigan Medicine, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of the health system. Fernamberg collaborates with senior leadership to refine operational processes and enhance service delivery across patient care units. This position involves managing key projects and initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and patient satisfaction. The Associate Chief Operating Officer's contributions are vital to maintaining high standards of care and operational integrity. Michelle Fernamberg's focus on operational optimization directly supports the institution's mission to provide exceptional healthcare services. By working closely with various departments, Fernamberg ensures alignment with organizational goals and facilitates the implementation of best practices. This executive's role is critical in driving continuous improvement within the complex healthcare environment.

    Constance O'Malley - Chief Operating Officer C.S. Mott Children's Hospital University of Michigan

    Constance O'Malley, the Chief Operating Officer C.S. Mott Children's Hospital University of Michigan at Michigan Medicine, leads the operational management of a specialized pediatric healthcare facility. O'Malley directs the strategic and day-to-day operations, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, family-centered care for children. This executive oversees all aspects of hospital operations, including patient flow, resource management, and staff coordination within the pediatric setting. The Chief Operating Officer C.S. Mott Children's Hospital University of Michigan's responsibilities are critical to maintaining the hospital's reputation for excellence in pediatric medicine. Constance O'Malley's leadership focuses on optimizing the patient experience and supporting clinical teams in providing advanced treatments. By driving operational efficiency, O'Malley ensures the hospital can effectively meet the complex needs of its young patients and their families. This role is integral to the specialized mission of C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.

    Timothy Calahan - Chief Technology Officer

    Timothy Calahan, the Chief Technology Officer at Michigan Medicine, architects the technological infrastructure supporting patient care and research. Calahan directs the implementation and management of advanced IT systems, ensuring data security and system reliability. This role involves evaluating emerging technologies and integrating them to enhance clinical operations and administrative efficiency. The Chief Technology Officer's strategic vision guides the digital transformation of the medical center, fostering innovation in healthcare delivery. Timothy Calahan's leadership ensures that technology serves as a catalyst for improved patient outcomes and operational effectiveness. By overseeing the technology roadmap, Calahan supports the institution's commitment to cutting-edge medical advancements and seamless information exchange. This executive's focus on robust IT solutions underpins the organization's capacity for complex medical procedures and groundbreaking research.

    Anika Gardenhire - Chief Digital & Information Officer

    Anika Gardenhire, the Chief Digital & Information Officer at Michigan Medicine, spearheads the digital transformation and information management strategies for the organization. Gardenhire directs the development and implementation of digital health solutions and robust information systems that enhance patient engagement and clinical decision-making. This role involves overseeing data governance, cybersecurity, and the integration of digital tools across all facets of the medical center. The Chief Digital & Information Officer's vision is crucial for leveraging technology to improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes. Anika Gardenhire's leadership ensures that digital initiatives align with the institution's commitment to innovation and patient-centered care. By managing the organization's digital footprint and information assets, Gardenhire supports operational efficiency and strategic growth. This executive's expertise is fundamental to modernizing healthcare delivery through advanced technology.

    Chris Dickinson - Professor of Pediatrics, Medical School

    Chris Dickinson, the Professor of Pediatrics, Medical School at Michigan Medicine, contributes to the academic and clinical advancement of pediatric medicine. Dickinson leads educational programs and conducts research aimed at improving child health outcomes and understanding pediatric diseases. This faculty position involves mentoring medical students and residents, fostering the next generation of pediatric specialists. The Professor of Pediatrics, Medical School's role is integral to the educational mission of the University of Michigan Medical School. Chris Dickinson's work in research and teaching directly supports the institution's commitment to medical education and scientific discovery. By advancing knowledge in pediatrics, Dickinson contributes to the development of new treatments and improved patient care strategies. This academic leadership enhances the medical center's capacity for specialized pediatric care and medical innovation.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Michigan Medicine Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Michigan Medicine?
    Michigan Medicine is led by Svetlana Dembitskaya (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Michelle Fernamberg (Associate Chief Operating Officer) and Constance O'Malley (Chief Operating Officer C.S. Mott Children's Hospital University of Michigan).
    Who is part of Michigan Medicine’s executive team?
    The executive team of Michigan Medicine includes leaders such as Svetlana Dembitskaya (Chief Operating Officer), Michelle Fernamberg (Associate Chief Operating Officer), Constance O'Malley (Chief Operating Officer C.S. Mott Children's Hospital University of Michigan) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Michigan Medicine have?
    Michigan Medicine has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Michigan Medicine’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Michigan Medicine includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Associate Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer C.S. Mott Children's Hospital University of Michigan, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Digital & Information Officer.