Kelsey Schmidt, MBA
Kelsey Schmidt, MBA, is a seasoned healthcare growth and operations executive with more than 15 years of experience leading multi-site clinical operations, specialty platforms, and national physician workforce enterprises across ambulatory, acute, and virtual care environments. Her career spans full P&L ownership, ambulatory surgery center and cardiovascular platform leadership, acquisition integration, telehealth expansion, and enterprise workforce strategy. Kelsey is known for scaling provider organizations, strengthening underperforming operations, reducing vacancy exposure, and aligning workforce planning with sustainable financial performance and improved patient access.
Kelsey began her healthcare journey on the clinical side after training as a surgical technologist, inspired by her eldest son’s complex medical needs at birth. This early hands-on experience shaped her leadership philosophy, emphasizing systems that support clinicians, protect patient access, and drive operational excellence. As she advanced into leadership roles, including CEO of an ambulatory surgery center and cardiac cath lab, Kelsey cultivated high-performing teams and operational clarity, blending rigorous data-informed decision-making with mentorship and authentic culture building.
Currently, Kelsey serves as an independent healthcare consultant, partnering with organizations nationwide on workforce strategy, physician recruitment, operational improvement, and forecasting to improve patient access. She previously held a Senior Director role at Cross Country, where she supported large-scale workforce initiatives. Passionate about growth, modernization, and mission alignment, Kelsey is energized by opportunities where operational clarity, workforce stability, and clinical excellence converge, helping healthcare organizations anticipate future staffing needs and deliver better care.
• Missouri Baptist University - MBA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to two key experiences. Early in my leadership journey, I helped launch an internal mentorship program at a large healthcare organization, discovering how much I enjoy developing and supporting other leaders. Later, as CEO of an ambulatory surgery center and cardiac cath lab, I had the privilege of building an incredible clinical team and a culture of trust, collaboration, and authentic connection.
Both experiences reinforced that true success comes from empowering others, fostering strong teams, and creating environments where people can thrive.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received came from two influential mentors in my journey. One colleague and I had a unique dynamic—we alternated reporting to each other over time—and through that, we learned a tremendous amount from one another. Another leader encouraged me to pursue my MBA, helping me navigate tuition reimbursement and showing me that it was possible to advance my education while working full-time as a single parent. Their guidance and support taught me the value of believing in yourself, seizing opportunities, and using your growth to inspire others.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
For young women entering healthcare leadership, know that it’s a meaningful but complex industry. Focus on the impact you can make, even when challenges feel overwhelming. Seek mentors who push you, stay connected to your “why,” and dream big—your purpose will guide your growth.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in healthcare today are the deep-rooted systemic issues in the U.S. and the ongoing tension between mission-driven care and business realities, which can make meaningful change difficult. At the same time, there are significant opportunities to strengthen workforce strategy, forecasting, and recruitment, which can improve patient access and enhance operational resilience.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me center on family, balance, and meaningful experiences. I’m happily married with a 22-year-old son and a 4-year-old son, and spending quality time with them is a top priority. I also love attending concerts and traveling whenever possible, as my husband and I have a growing bucket list of adventures we hope to share. While I’ve been a bit of a workaholic over the years, I’m actively striving for better balance so I can fully enjoy these moments outside of work.
Locations
Beeler Consulting, LLC
O'fallon, MO 63366