Mr. Wright serves as executive vice president and CHRO at Children’s Mercy Kansas City, where he has led significant initiatives to enhance culture, engagement and wellbeing across the organization. Under his leadership, the hospital launched “culture unfreezing” retreats, aiming to reach all 8,500 team members within two years and reinforce a sense of meaning and purpose in their work. He also played a central role in launching the Children’s Mercy Berry Institute, which contributed to a substantial increase in employee engagement, rising from 48% to 63% in its first year. Recognizing the national burnout crisis among pediatricians and nurses, Mr. Wright has prioritized staff wellbeing and successfully reduced voluntary nursing turnover to 8.7%, well below the national average of 22.5%. His efforts have resulted in national recognition, including 2025 Newsweek awards recognizing the organization as a great workplace for diversity and for women, as well as a spot on the 2024 Forbes “Best-In-State Employer” list for Missouri.
Becker's Recognition
Tom Wrighthas been named a Becker's honoree on the lists below.
2024 Winner

Executives
Black Healthcare leaders to know
Diversity in healthcare leadership results in a more well-rounded experience for patients and providers. Becker’s is thrilled to honor these Black healthcare leaders. The leaders featured on this list are shaping the patient experience, educating and training the next generation of healthcare providers, and furthering equity and inclusion.
2025 Winner

Executives
CHROs and Chief People Officers to Know
Chief human resources officers and chief people officers are tasked with developing strong human capital strategies for their hospitals and health systems.
These leaders have a wide range of responsibilities, including oversight of recruitment, retention, compensation, benefits, development and much more. As top human resources executives, their efforts are crucial in shaping workforce culture in alignment with their organization’s values.
