Paige Moore
CEO, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa
Age: 39
Education: Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE); Master of Healthcare Administration, University of Iowa College of Public Health; Bachelor of Arts in business administration, Wartburg College
Husband: Tony Moore
Children: Harlow Moore
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Tell us some of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.
I am passionate about caring for families whose children are receiving medical care in Des Moines and, serving as the CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa, work daily to ensure support systems are available to them.
I have volunteered my time and talent in my community and its nonprofit organizations for over 13 years, including serving in a variety of leadership roles.
I have precepted several local undergraduate and graduate students, helping to build the next generation of health care leaders.
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?
Growing up, my family was heavily involved in volunteering and serving others. That commitment to the community, along with a strong Christian faith, founded my desire to serve others in my career. Matthew 20:28: “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.”
What’s one decision you made early in your career that had an outsized impact?
Accepting my first job at UnityPoint Health – Des Moines in the business development department. I had trained and was focused on working in pediatric health care administration, but there wasn’t an opening when I relocated to Des Moines. A mentor of mine suggested I apply, and the job changed my career trajectory.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I am not a fundraiser by background and have never led a capital campaign. However, with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa’s aspirations to grow and expand services and support, we will soon be embarking on a capital campaign. I’m excited to take a vision and make it a reality through a major fundraising effort!
What are you still working on to improve as a leader?
As a leader, I’m constantly honing my desire for structure, offering direction and guidance while also empowering others to explore solutions on their own and learn from the process. My goal is to empower those on my team to have a continuous improvement mindset while being creative and finding new solutions to problems.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young professional?
Stay flexible and keep your mind open. There will likely be opportunities that arise unexpectedly and are not “part of your plan,” but those can be the best opportunities of your career. Where I am now was never somewhere I expected to be when my career started and it’s the best job ever!
What’s one regular habit that’s made you successful?
I use my work calendar obsessively. If something is not on my calendar, I won’t be there! I schedule meeting time, work time, travel time, etc., and color-code activities for a quick visual cue. I review the next workday at the end of every day so I’m mentally prepared.
What’s one outdated way of thinking that you’d like to challenge?
That nonprofit organizations should be run like a charity and not like a for-profit business. To ensure long-term sustainability, financial viability and mission fulfillment, nonprofit organizations must utilize similar business principles as a for-profit organization. Adequate staffing, a solid balance sheet with long-term investments and understanding of the local market are vital.
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
One issue I’d like Central Iowa leaders to continue addressing is the need for accessible, affordable child care. Reliable child care is essential for a strong workforce, economic stability and healthy families, yet many parents struggle to find affordable, flexible options. This gap affects employers, limits opportunities for women and affects long-term community well-being. Prioritizing solutions through innovative partnerships and investment would strengthen Central Iowa and create a more equitable, sustainable future for families.
What’s one fun fact about you?
I have a very eclectic taste in music. I am a classically trained pianist who loves Broadway musicals, listens to acoustic music throughout the workday and has EDM dance parties with my daughter. My first concert was Hoobastank and Incubus and there’s no better housecleaning soundtrack than 2000s hip-hop.
Hobbies: Travel! Our family loves exploring national parks; puzzle league at Uptown Garage Brewing Co.; binge true crime podcasts or documentaries
What is one word that best describes you?
Adaptable.
What’s one food you think people must try in the Des Moines area?
Panang curry from Thai Flavors.
What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?
My 9-year-old daughter has started asking to borrow my clothes. … I thought I had a few more years before that would happen!
What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?
Festival of Trees and Lights Gala benefiting Blank Children’s Hospital. My husband and I have attended the gala for 13 years and it’s our favorite way to kick off the holiday season!
What is your go-to snack?
Popcorn.