We’re pleased to announce that Pierre M. Désy, MPH CAE, has joined Association Management Center (AMC) and will serve as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM), a professional organization managed by AMC.
Désy brings more than 25 years of healthcare association management and public health expertise to his role. Prior to AMC, he served as CEO of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology and the Foundation for Women’s Cancer, where he led the development and implementation of strategic plans, revised bylaws, improved governance models, and advanced diversity and inclusion initiatives. With his leadership, both organizations experienced an increase in non-dues revenue, growing membership bases, and significantly higher attendance at conferences. He also oversaw substantial growth in investments and the Women’s Cancer Fund and led efforts to diversify educational programs and conference offerings to meet evolving member needs.
In addition, Désy has held executive leadership roles with the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Emergency Nurses Association. He has also served as a management consultant and coach, supporting healthcare associations and professionals in improving performance and achieving excellence.
“Pierre Désy is a transformative association executive with a strong track record of driving organizational growth, building strong partnerships, and advancing equity initiatives,” said Steve Smith, AMC CEO. “AAHPM will thrive under his leadership, and I’m thrilled to welcome him to AMC.”
“I am honored to join AMC and serve as CEO of AAHPM, said Désy. “I was drawn to AMC’s commitment to association management grounded in good governance, collaboration, and transparency, along with the chance to work with a team that shares my passion for health equity. I’m looking forward to the opportunities ahead and making a meaningful impact on both organizations.”
Désy has a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Illinois–Chicago.
He began his role at AMC on July 23, 2025.
About The American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM)
AAHPM is the professional organization for physicians specializing in hospice and palliative medicine (HPM), as well as nurses, social workers, and other health and spiritual care practitioners committed to improving quality of life for seriously ill patients and their families. For more than 30 years, AAHPM has been dedicated to expanding access to high quality palliative care, and advancing the discipline of HPM medicine through professional education and training, development of a specialist workforce, support for clinical practice standards, research and public policy.