Joe Mitchell Takes Helm at CHOP as Madeline Bell Retires After Nearly 40 Years

PHILADELPHIA — Dr. Joe Mitchell took over as president and CEO of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia on Oct. 1, succeeding Madeline Bell, who retired after nearly 40 years with the institution, including 11 as its chief executive.

CHOP announced the transition in June, capping a succession process that began in 2024 when Bell told the board of trustees of her retirement plans. Mitchell joined CHOP as president in April 2025 after a national search and spent the past year working alongside Bell and the leadership team.

Bell, 65, began her career as a pediatric nurse at CHOP in 1983. After working in hospital administration elsewhere, she returned in 1995 and rose through roles including chief operating officer before becoming CEO in 2015, the first woman to hold the position in the hospital’s 171-year history.

“Serving CHOP has been the honor of a lifetime,” Bell said in a statement. “I am incredibly proud of how far this organization has come, and even more confident in where it is headed.”

Mitchell came to Philadelphia from Boston Children’s Hospital, where he was executive vice president, and also served as president of Franciscan Children’s, a pediatric specialty facility in Boston. Earlier in his career, he spent 14 years at McKinsey and Company, including seven as a partner focused on healthcare.

Board Chairman Greg Davis credited Bell with guiding CHOP through sustained growth and strengthening its standing as a global pediatric leader. Of Mitchell, he said the new chief brings “a fresh perspective, a patient-first approach and a strong strategic mindset.”

“CHOP is one of the most remarkable institutions in healthcare, with a mission that truly transforms lives,” Mitchell said. “Together we will keep advancing our work to ensure all children, in Philadelphia and beyond, have the opportunity to thrive.”