CareFirst Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

CareFirst has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, marketing, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to accessible health solutions, CareFirst offers comprehensive health insurance products and administrative services, impacting the well-being of millions through its not-for-profit mission.

Leadership Roles at CareFirst

  • Chief Executive Officer - Leigh Sampson
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Kurt Small
  • Chief Financial Officer - Chris Hines
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Ja'Ron Bridges
  • Chief Operating Officer - Cheryl Toland
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Mack McGee
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer - Glenn Rothman
  • Divisional Advisor. Chief of Staff - Heather Hahn
  • Chief of Staff & Senior VP, Strategy & Health Plan Engagement - Sandra Beard
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Angela Celestin
  • Leigh Sampson - Chief Executive Officer

    Leigh Sampson, the Chief Executive Officer at CareFirst, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the not-for-profit health insurance provider. Sampson guides the company's mission to deliver accessible health solutions across its service areas. This leadership role involves setting corporate objectives, fostering innovation in health plan offerings, and ensuring alignment with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association standards. Sampson's focus remains on enhancing member experience and driving sustainable growth within the competitive healthcare landscape. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to stakeholder relations, including board governance and community engagement, solidifying CareFirst's position as a trusted health partner. Sampson champions initiatives that improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs for members.
    Leigh Sampson

    Kurt Small - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Kurt Small, the President & Chief Executive Officer at CareFirst, spearheads the organization's strategic direction and operational leadership. Small drives the company's commitment to providing comprehensive health insurance products and administrative services, upholding the not-for-profit mission. This executive position involves overseeing all facets of the business, from product development to market expansion, ensuring CareFirst meets the evolving healthcare needs of its members. Small's leadership focuses on fostering a culture of innovation and service excellence. The President & Chief Executive Officer's role encompasses managing key relationships with partners and regulatory bodies, ensuring compliance and promoting the company's impact on community health. Kurt Small is dedicated to advancing CareFirst's position as a leading independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
    Kurt Small

    Chris Hines - Chief Financial Officer

    Chris Hines, the Chief Financial Officer at CareFirst, directs the company's financial strategy and fiscal operations. Hines oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring the fiscal health and sustainability of the not-for-profit health insurance provider. This critical role involves managing investments, optimizing financial performance, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and regulatory bodies. Hines's expertise supports the company's mission to offer accessible health products by ensuring efficient resource allocation. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include risk management and the development of financial models that support long-term growth and operational efficiency. Chris Hines plays a pivotal part in safeguarding the company's assets and driving financial integrity across all departments.

    Ja'Ron Bridges - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Ja'Ron Bridges, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at CareFirst, provides critical financial leadership and oversight. Bridges supports the Chief Financial Officer in managing the company's financial health, including financial planning, analysis, and reporting. This role is integral to ensuring the fiscal responsibility and sustainability of CareFirst's health insurance operations. Bridges contributes to strategic financial decision-making, aiming to optimize resource allocation and drive profitability within the not-for-profit framework. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities encompass managing financial risks and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Ja'Ron Bridges plays a key part in maintaining the financial integrity that underpins CareFirst's commitment to accessible healthcare.
    Ja'Ron Bridges

    Cheryl Toland - Chief Operating Officer

    Cheryl Toland, the Chief Operating Officer at CareFirst, oversees the day-to-day operational functions and ensures the efficient delivery of health insurance products and administrative services. Toland's purview includes managing claims processing, customer service operations, and IT infrastructure to support seamless member experiences. This executive role is central to maintaining the operational integrity and scalability of the company's offerings, aligning with its not-for-profit mission. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities involve optimizing business processes, implementing technological advancements, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Cheryl Toland drives operational excellence, focusing on enhancing efficiency and service quality to meet the evolving healthcare demands of the market.

    Mack McGee - Chief Marketing Officer

    Mack McGee, the Chief Marketing Officer at CareFirst, leads the strategic development and execution of all marketing initiatives. McGee is responsible for enhancing brand visibility, driving member acquisition, and strengthening customer engagement across all product lines. This role involves overseeing market research, advertising campaigns, digital marketing efforts, and public relations to communicate CareFirst's value proposition effectively. The Chief Marketing Officer's focus is on understanding market dynamics and member needs to craft compelling messaging that supports the company's mission of providing accessible health insurance. Mack McGee directs the marketing team in creating innovative campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences and reinforce CareFirst's commitment to community health and well-being.
    Mack McGee

    Glenn Rothman - Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    Glenn Rothman, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at CareFirst, directs the company's technology strategy and information systems. Rothman oversees the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, ensuring data security, system reliability, and technological innovation across the organization. This leadership position is crucial for supporting CareFirst's mission to deliver efficient and accessible health insurance products. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing digital transformation initiatives, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency and member services. Glenn Rothman ensures that CareFirst's technological capabilities align with its strategic goals and regulatory requirements, driving advancements in healthcare technology.

    Heather Hahn - Divisional Advisor. Chief of Staff

    Heather Hahn, the Divisional Advisor. Chief of Staff at CareFirst, provides strategic support and operational guidance to executive leadership. Hahn facilitates the execution of key initiatives, manages cross-functional projects, and ensures alignment across various departments to advance CareFirst's mission. This role involves coordinating strategic planning efforts, optimizing internal communications, and serving as a key liaison between different business units. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities are vital for enhancing organizational effectiveness and driving strategic priorities. Heather Hahn contributes to the smooth functioning of executive operations, ensuring that CareFirst's commitment to providing accessible health insurance remains at the forefront of all endeavors.

    Sandra Beard - Chief of Staff & Senior VP, Strategy & Health Plan Engagement

    Sandra Beard, the Chief of Staff & Senior VP, Strategy & Health Plan Engagement at CareFirst, drives strategic planning and fosters engagement with health plan stakeholders. Beard oversees the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance CareFirst's market position and service offerings. This dual role involves managing key relationships with health plan partners, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives, and contributing to the overall strategic direction of the company. The Chief of Staff & Senior VP's responsibilities are critical for advancing CareFirst's mission of delivering accessible health insurance solutions. Sandra Beard focuses on strengthening strategic partnerships and optimizing engagement to support the company's growth and member satisfaction.

    Angela Celestin - Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Angela Celestin, the Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at CareFirst, leads the company's human capital strategy and talent management initiatives. Celestin is responsible for developing and implementing HR policies that support employee growth, foster a positive work environment, and align with CareFirst's not-for-profit mission. This executive role oversees recruitment, compensation, benefits, employee relations, and organizational development to ensure a skilled and engaged workforce. The Chief Human Resources Officer's focus is on attracting, retaining, and developing talent to drive the company's success in the healthcare industry. Angela Celestin plays a pivotal role in cultivating a culture that supports CareFirst's commitment to providing exceptional health insurance services.
    Angela Celestin

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CareFirst Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CareFirst?
    CareFirst is led by Leigh Sampson (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kurt Small (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Chris Hines (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of CareFirst’s executive team?
    The executive team of CareFirst includes leaders such as Leigh Sampson (Chief Executive Officer), Kurt Small (President & Chief Executive Officer), Chris Hines (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CareFirst have?
    CareFirst has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CareFirst’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CareFirst includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer.