CareFirst Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

CareFirst has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, operational management, marketing, and information technology.

Committed to expanding access to quality health insurance, CareFirst delivers comprehensive administrative services and health products to improve community wellness across the mid-Atlantic region.

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
  • Vice President, Deputy Chief of Staff - Arin Foreman
  • Leigh Sampson - Chief Executive Officer

    Leigh Sampson, the Chief Executive Officer at CareFirst, directs the overarching strategic vision for this not-for-profit health care organization. Sampson architects long-term growth initiatives while ensuring the company maintains its status as a reliable independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. By aligning corporate objectives with the evolving needs of the health insurance market, the Chief Executive Officer fosters innovation in product delivery and administrative efficiency. Sampson monitors regional health trends to ensure the organization remains competitive within the Baltimore market and beyond. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable value for members and stakeholders alike. Leigh Sampson maintains a focus on expanding access to affordable care, ensuring that the company mission remains central to every operational decision made at the executive level.
    Leigh Sampson

    Kurt Small - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Kurt Small, the President & Chief Executive Officer at CareFirst, manages the daily execution of health insurance operations and administrative services. Small leads the executive team in navigating complex regulatory environments while maintaining the financial integrity of the organization. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Small prioritizes the development of member-centric health products that address diverse community needs. By overseeing large-scale operational initiatives, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the company delivers consistent value across its regional footprint. Kurt Small coordinates with the Board to refine corporate governance and long-term sustainability strategies. This leadership role involves balancing fiscal responsibility with the mission of providing accessible health care solutions. Through decisive action, Small strengthens the market position of the company while fostering a culture of excellence and accountability throughout the entire organization.
    Kurt Small

    Chris Hines - Chief Financial Officer

    Chris Hines, the Chief Financial Officer at CareFirst, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the organization. Hines oversees financial planning, reporting, and risk management to ensure the company maintains its not-for-profit mission while achieving operational stability. As the Chief Financial Officer, Hines directs the budgeting process and monitors the financial performance of various health insurance product lines. By analyzing market data and economic indicators, the Chief Financial Officer provides critical insights that inform strategic decision-making across the enterprise. Chris Hines collaborates with other executive leaders to optimize resource distribution and enhance administrative service efficiency. This role requires a deep understanding of the health insurance industry and the ability to navigate complex financial landscapes. Through prudent fiscal management, Hines supports the long-term growth and resilience of the company in a competitive health care market.

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

    Ja'Ron Bridges, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at CareFirst, manages the long-term investment strategies and capital structure of the organization. Bridges directs the financial planning and analysis functions to ensure the company maintains a strong balance sheet while fulfilling its not-for-profit mission. As the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Bridges oversees the treasury and corporate finance departments to optimize liquidity and risk management. By evaluating strategic investment opportunities, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of health insurance services and administrative capabilities. Ja'Ron Bridges works closely with the Board to communicate financial performance and strategic outlook. This leadership role involves balancing immediate operational needs with the future financial health of the company. Through disciplined financial oversight, Bridges ensures that the organization remains well-positioned to serve its members and invest in community health initiatives.
    Ja'Ron Bridges

    Cheryl Toland - Chief Operating Officer

    Cheryl Toland, the Chief Operating Officer at CareFirst, directs the internal business processes and service delivery models that support the company health insurance offerings. Toland architects scalable operational frameworks to improve member experiences and streamline administrative workflows. As the Chief Operating Officer, Toland monitors the performance of core business functions to ensure alignment with corporate quality standards. By optimizing operational efficiency, the Chief Operating Officer enables the organization to respond effectively to changing market demands and regulatory requirements. Cheryl Toland coordinates with department heads to implement technology-driven solutions that enhance service delivery across the regional network. This leadership role focuses on maintaining high operational standards while supporting the broader mission of the company. Through continuous process improvement, Toland ensures that the organization remains agile and capable of delivering consistent, high-quality health care services to all members.

    Mack McGee - Chief Marketing Officer

    Mack McGee, the Chief Marketing Officer at CareFirst, drives the brand strategy and market engagement initiatives for the organization. McGee architects comprehensive communication campaigns that highlight the value of health insurance products and administrative services to diverse audiences. As the Chief Marketing Officer, McGee oversees the development of digital and traditional marketing channels to increase member acquisition and retention. By analyzing consumer behavior and market trends, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the company messaging resonates with the communities served. Mack McGee collaborates with product teams to align marketing efforts with new service launches and organizational goals. This leadership role involves managing the public image of the company and strengthening its reputation as a trusted health care partner. Through strategic brand positioning, McGee supports the overall growth and market impact of the organization in the competitive insurance landscape.
    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 digital infrastructure and technology strategy for the company. Rothman architects secure and scalable systems that support the delivery of health insurance products and administrative services. As the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Rothman oversees the implementation of advanced data analytics and cybersecurity measures to protect member information. By modernizing the technological landscape, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer enables the organization to improve service efficiency and member engagement. Glenn Rothman collaborates with other executive leaders to integrate innovative digital solutions into the core business model. This role requires a focus on maintaining robust IT operations while supporting the long-term digital transformation goals of the company. Through technological leadership, Rothman ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of health care innovation.

    Heather Hahn - Divisional Advisor. Chief of Staff

    Heather Hahn, the Divisional Advisor. Chief of Staff at CareFirst, coordinates the strategic priorities and administrative functions within the executive office. Hahn architects communication flows between the leadership team and various departments to ensure alignment with the company mission. As the Divisional Advisor. Chief of Staff, Hahn manages special projects and facilitates cross-functional collaboration to drive organizational efficiency. By monitoring key performance indicators and project timelines, the Divisional Advisor. Chief of Staff provides the executive team with the insights necessary for informed decision-making. Heather Hahn supports the development of internal policies and organizational culture initiatives that enhance the overall effectiveness of the company. This role requires a focus on operational excellence and the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships. Through proactive coordination, Hahn ensures that the executive office functions smoothly and remains focused on achieving the strategic goals of the organization.

    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, directs the strategic planning process and member engagement initiatives. Beard architects programs that strengthen the relationship between the company and its health plan members. As the Chief of Staff & Senior VP, Strategy & Health Plan Engagement, Beard oversees the development of long-term strategies that address the evolving needs of the health insurance market. By analyzing member feedback and health outcomes, the Chief of Staff & Senior VP, Strategy & Health Plan Engagement ensures that the company services remain relevant and impactful. Sandra Beard collaborates with other executive leaders to integrate strategic goals into daily operations. This leadership role involves managing high-level initiatives that drive member satisfaction and organizational growth. Through strategic engagement, Beard ensures that the company continues to provide high-quality health care solutions to its diverse member base.

    Arin Foreman - Vice President, Deputy Chief of Staff

    Arin Foreman, the Vice President, Deputy Chief of Staff at CareFirst, supports the executive office in managing daily operations and strategic initiatives. Foreman architects administrative processes that improve the efficiency of the leadership team and facilitate better communication across the organization. As the Vice President, Deputy Chief of Staff, Foreman monitors the progress of key corporate projects and ensures that departmental goals align with the broader mission of the company. By providing analytical support and project management, the Vice President, Deputy Chief of Staff enables the executive team to focus on high-impact decision-making. Arin Foreman collaborates with various stakeholders to resolve operational challenges and streamline internal workflows. This role requires a focus on organizational agility and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Through dedicated support, Foreman ensures that the executive office remains effective in driving the strategic objectives of the organization.

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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.