Two New Strategic Appointments Strengthen Wayspring’s Leadership Team

Nashville, Tenn. September 14, 2023 — Wayspring, a value-based healthcare organization, proudly announces the addition of two seasoned professionals to its Leadership Team: Michelle Leonhardt as Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations, and Alice Heywood as Chief Legal Officer. This expansion in Leadership comes at a crucial juncture for Wayspring, given its current growth trajectory and the growing demand for holistic, value-based care in Medicaid.     

With a 25-year track record in clinical leadership, Michelle Leonhardt possesses a sophisticated understanding of the healthcare landscape and is deeply committed to evolving care delivery. “Michelle’s focus on achieving excellent patient outcomes, coupled with her vast experience in emerging value-based care models, makes her the ideal candidate to help guide our clinical operations,” said Carter Paine, Chief Executive Officer of Wayspring. 

Prior to her association with Wayspring, Leonhardt served as Market President at Optum, where she played a pivotal role in bolstering clinical and operational outcomes. Grounded in servant leadership, she is not just dedicated to the success of Wayspring’s members but is equally devoted to uplifting her colleagues. “I am beyond excited to join Wayspring—a place where every employee is driven by the shared vision of delivering unparalleled value-based care to our members.” 

Alice Heywood steps in as Chief Legal Officer, bringing her robust expertise as a healthcare lawyer. She has consistently showcased her acumen in leading, negotiating, and managing complex strategic relationships and transactions in highly regulated sectors. Alice’s 12-year tenure as Senior Counsel at HCA Healthcare and her stint at Waller Lansden Dortch and Davis have honed her skills in strategic thinking, risk management, negotiation, and business relationship management. 

Paine remarked, “Alice’s exceptional experience in the provider, value-based care and transaction world is precisely what Wayspring needs as we further our expansion. Her ability to advise and work in tandem with senior executives will undoubtedly steer us in the right direction.” 

To learn more about Wayspring, or to read more about our Leadership Team, visit www.wayspring.com/our-team.