Dr. Michael White Named Next CEO of Valleywise Health

Dr. White, who has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer since 2019, was a key architect in the recent transformation of the Phoenix-based health system. His tenure included the launch of a new medical center and the expansion of specialty and behavioral health services. Board Chair Virginia Korte noted that White’s internal experience and his ability to balance clinical strategy with operational performance made him the clear choice to maintain the organization's current trajectory.

Outgoing CEO Steve Purves, who led the system through 12 years of significant growth, praised his successor’s leadership. White brings a unique background to the role, holding both a medical degree and an MBA from Creighton University. Beyond his work at Valleywise, he previously served as Chief Academic Officer for CHI Health in Omaha and holds an academic appointment at the Creighton University School of Medicine. The board is scheduled to formally finalize the appointment during a special meeting on July 8, 2026.