University Health KC Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

University Health KC has 10 executives leading key functions including marketing, operations, finance, human resources, and behavioral health.

Committed to providing high-quality not-for-profit health system services, University Health KC advances community wellness through accessible care and innovative medical programs across the region.

Leadership Roles at University Health KC

  • Chief Financial Officer - Marga Hoelscher
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Brian McNamara
  • Chief Operating Officer - Laura Peckham
  • Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health - Marsha Morgan
  • Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health - Sharon Freese
  • Chief Operating Officer (Lakewood) - Lynette Wheeler
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Nancy Lewis
  • Chief of Staff - Michael Little
  • Associate Chief Human Resources Officer - Amanda O’ Neill
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Amanda Tamayo
  • Marga Hoelscher - Chief Financial Officer

    Marga Hoelscher, the Chief Financial Officer at University Health KC, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the organization. Overseeing budget development and capital allocation, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the not-for-profit health system maintains the resources required for clinical expansion. This role involves analyzing revenue cycles and cost structures to improve financial sustainability. Marga Hoelscher collaborates with the board to establish fiscal policies that support the mission of providing accessible healthcare. By monitoring financial performance, the Chief Financial Officer identifies opportunities for investment in medical technology and facility upgrades. The Chief Financial Officer maintains rigorous oversight of accounting practices and regulatory compliance. Through strategic financial management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the economic viability of the health system, allowing the organization to continue serving the community with high-quality medical services.

    Brian McNamara - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Brian McNamara, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at University Health KC, leads the financial strategy and treasury operations for the health system. Overseeing investment portfolios and debt management, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that the organization maintains a strong balance sheet. This role involves evaluating financial risks and opportunities to support the long-term growth of the not-for-profit system. Brian McNamara works with the executive team to align financial resources with clinical priorities. By optimizing the financial structure, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer enables the organization to invest in new medical technologies and infrastructure. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency in financial reporting to ensure compliance with industry standards. Through strategic financial leadership, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer secures the resources necessary to fulfill the mission of providing accessible healthcare.

    Laura Peckham - Chief Operating Officer

    Laura Peckham, the Chief Operating Officer at University Health KC, manages the daily clinical and administrative functions of the health system. Overseeing hospital operations, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that facilities maintain high standards of patient care and safety. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation to support the delivery of not-for-profit medical services. Laura Peckham coordinates with department heads to improve clinical workflows and patient outcomes. By implementing operational efficiencies, the Chief Operating Officer drives the success of the health system across the region. The Chief Operating Officer monitors performance metrics to ensure that all hospital units meet regulatory requirements and internal quality benchmarks. Through the management of complex healthcare delivery systems, the Chief Operating Officer secures the operational foundation necessary for the organization to fulfill its mission of providing comprehensive medical support to the community.

    Marsha Morgan - Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health

    Marsha Morgan, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health at University Health KC, directs the delivery of specialized mental health services. Overseeing clinical programs and patient support systems, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health ensures that the organization provides comprehensive care for diverse behavioral needs. This leadership role involves managing staff resources and facility operations to maintain high-quality treatment standards. Marsha Morgan coordinates with community partners to expand access to mental health resources across the region. By focusing on patient-centered care models, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health improves outcomes for individuals seeking support. The Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health monitors clinical performance and operational efficiency to ensure that behavioral health services remain a core component of the not-for-profit health system. Through dedicated leadership, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health strengthens the impact of the organization on community wellness.

    Sharon Freese - Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health

    Sharon Freese, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health at University Health KC, manages the operational infrastructure for mental health and addiction services. Overseeing the integration of behavioral health into the broader medical system, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health ensures that patients receive holistic care. This role involves managing clinical workflows and facility resources to optimize treatment delivery. Sharon Freese works with medical directors to implement evidence-based practices that improve patient outcomes. By focusing on operational scalability, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health expands the reach of mental health services to underserved populations. The Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health monitors quality metrics to ensure that all behavioral health programs meet the standards of the not-for-profit health system. Through strategic oversight, the Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health strengthens the organization's ability to address the complex health needs of the community.

    Lynette Wheeler - Chief Operating Officer (Lakewood)

    Lynette Wheeler, the Chief Operating Officer (Lakewood) at University Health KC, directs the operational activities at the Lakewood campus. Overseeing facility management and clinical service delivery, the Chief Operating Officer (Lakewood) ensures that the campus meets the needs of the local community. This role involves coordinating with the broader health system to maintain consistent standards of care. Lynette Wheeler manages the daily operations of the campus, focusing on efficiency and patient satisfaction. By optimizing the use of medical resources, the Chief Operating Officer (Lakewood) supports the mission of providing accessible not-for-profit healthcare. The Chief Operating Officer (Lakewood) monitors campus performance to ensure that all departments operate effectively. Through dedicated leadership at the campus level, the Chief Operating Officer (Lakewood) contributes to the overall success and reputation of the health system in the region.

    Nancy Lewis - Chief Marketing Officer

    Nancy Lewis, the Chief Marketing Officer at University Health KC, directs all brand strategy and public communication initiatives. Overseeing the development of patient engagement campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures consistent messaging across the entire not-for-profit health system. This leadership role involves managing digital outreach and community relations to expand the reach of medical services throughout the Midwest. By aligning marketing efforts with clinical goals, Nancy Lewis strengthens the reputation of the organization. The Chief Marketing Officer monitors market trends to optimize service visibility, ensuring that the public understands the value of the care provided. Through strategic partnerships and media management, the Chief Marketing Officer drives growth and supports the mission of delivering accessible healthcare to diverse populations. This professional focus on brand integrity remains central to the long-term success of the health system.
    Nancy Lewis

    Michael Little - Chief of Staff

    Michael Little, the Chief of Staff at University Health KC, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication between the leadership team and the board. Overseeing administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures that organizational objectives align with the mission of providing not-for-profit health services. This role involves managing complex projects that span multiple departments, requiring constant collaboration with clinical and operational leaders. Michael Little optimizes internal processes to improve efficiency across the health system. By streamlining decision-making protocols, the Chief of Staff supports the executive team in executing long-term strategic goals. The Chief of Staff maintains focus on operational excellence, ensuring that resources support the delivery of high-quality patient care. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief of Staff contributes to the stability and growth of the organization within the competitive healthcare landscape.

    Amanda O’ Neill - Associate Chief Human Resources Officer

    Amanda O’ Neill, the Associate Chief Human Resources Officer at University Health KC, supports the development of workforce strategies and talent management. Overseeing recruitment and employee engagement initiatives, the Associate Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the health system attracts and retains skilled professionals. This role involves managing labor relations and training programs to foster a culture of excellence within the not-for-profit environment. Amanda O’ Neill collaborates with leadership to align human capital with the strategic goals of the organization. By implementing policies that promote staff well-being, the Associate Chief Human Resources Officer contributes to the overall stability of the clinical teams. The Associate Chief Human Resources Officer monitors workforce metrics to identify areas for improvement in organizational culture. Through effective human resources management, the Associate Chief Human Resources Officer supports the delivery of high-quality patient care across all departments.

    Amanda Tamayo - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Amanda Tamayo, the Chief Human Resources Officer at University Health KC, directs the human capital strategy for the entire health system. Overseeing talent acquisition, compensation, and organizational development, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the mission of providing not-for-profit medical services. This role involves designing programs that support employee retention and professional growth. Amanda Tamayo collaborates with the executive team to build a culture that prioritizes patient care and staff satisfaction. By managing complex labor requirements, the Chief Human Resources Officer maintains operational continuity across all facilities. The Chief Human Resources Officer monitors workforce trends to ensure that the organization remains competitive in the healthcare market. Through strategic leadership of human resources, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the delivery of high-quality care by ensuring that the right talent is in place to meet community needs.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding University Health KC Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads University Health KC?
    University Health KC is led by Marga Hoelscher (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Brian McNamara (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Laura Peckham (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of University Health KC’s executive team?
    The executive team of University Health KC includes leaders such as Marga Hoelscher (Chief Financial Officer), Brian McNamara (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Laura Peckham (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does University Health KC have?
    University Health KC has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in University Health KC’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of University Health KC includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health, Chief Operating Officer, Behavioral Health.