Phoenix, Arizona, United States, March 2026 – Phoenix Children’s has announced the appointment of Stephanie Kearney, MBA, MHA, FACHE, as Senior Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer, strengthening its strategic leadership as the organization accelerates growth and innovation.
“We’ve set a bold new vision to improve the health of a generation, which will require strong, forward-thinking leadership to guide our work and drive meaningful progress for children and families,” said John R. Nickens IV, President and CEO, Phoenix Children’s. “Having worked with Stephanie previously, I know firsthand how impactful she will be as we create strategic plans to turn this vision into action.”
Joining in April, Stephanie Kearney will oversee enterprise strategy, guiding market and regional strategies for Phoenix Children’s. She will also lead community engagement, enterprise project management, and marketing and communications, positioning the organization for sustained growth and regional impact.
Kearney brings more than 15 years of healthcare leadership experience, with a strong focus on system growth, ambulatory strategy, service line expansion, and market positioning. She joins from Cody Regional Health, where she served as Chief Ambulatory Officer, leading systemwide ambulatory services and advancing strategic growth initiatives.
Earlier in her career, she held leadership roles at Vail Health and Baylor College of Medicine, supporting complex clinical operations, physician alignment, and service line development.
Kearney holds both an MBA and MHA from the University of Houston–Clear Lake and a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from the University of Texas at Austin. She is also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
“Phoenix Children’s is a dynamic pediatric health system and I’m thrilled to join the organization at such an exciting time,” said Kearney. “I look forward to partnering with our clinical and operational leaders to shape strategies that expand access, strengthen community partnerships and position Phoenix Children’s for continued growth and impact for children and families across the Southwest.”
Kearney joins a seasoned leadership team under Nickens’ direction, contributing to a renewed focus on strategic execution and organizational growth.
About Phoenix Children’s
Phoenix Children’s is among the largest pediatric health systems in the United States, with multiple hospital campuses, outpatient clinics, specialty centers, and community practices serving children and families across Arizona for over four decades.
Through its extensive care network and commitment to innovation, the organization continues to advance pediatric healthcare delivery, education, and research.
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