Excellus Executive and Leadership Team

James Reed, the Chief Executive Officer at Excellus, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Reed guides the company's mission to finance and deliver health care services, ensuring alignment with the BlueCross BlueShield Association standards. Overseeing all major corporate initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer drives growth and innovation across the enterprise. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and ensuring the financial health and long-term sustainability of the company. By setting high-level objectives, James Reed ensures that Excellus effectively serves its communities and adapts to the evolving healthcare landscape, maintaining a focus on member satisfaction and operational excellence.

Robert Wendler, the Senior Vice President, Health Plan Chief Financial Officer at Excellus, manages the financial operations and fiscal health of the health plan division. Wendler directs budgeting, financial planning, and risk management, ensuring robust financial controls and compliance with regulatory requirements. This critical role involves overseeing revenue cycles, claims processing, and investment strategies to maintain profitability and solvency. The Senior Vice President, Health Plan Chief Financial Officer collaborates with executive leadership to develop financial forecasts and identify cost-saving opportunities. By providing strategic financial guidance, Robert Wendler supports the organization's ability to offer competitive health insurance products and services while upholding its nonprofit mission and commitment to member value.

Tove Stigum, the Government Programs Chief Financial Officer at Excellus, oversees the financial management and compliance for all government-sponsored health programs. Stigum directs the financial operations related to Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal and state initiatives, ensuring adherence to complex regulatory frameworks. This position involves managing program budgets, financial reporting, and revenue reconciliation specific to government contracts. The Government Programs Chief Financial Officer collaborates with internal teams and external government agencies to optimize financial performance and ensure program integrity. By maintaining stringent financial oversight, Tove Stigum safeguards the company's participation in vital public health programs and supports Excellus's commitment to serving diverse populations through accessible and affordable healthcare options.

Robert Mercury, the Chief Financial Officer, Univera Healthcare at Excellus, directs the financial strategy and operations for the Univera Healthcare subsidiary. Mercury oversees all fiscal activities, including budgeting, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring the financial stability and growth of the subsidiary. This position involves managing financial risks and optimizing resource allocation to support Univera Healthcare's mission. The Chief Financial Officer, Univera Healthcare collaborates with the broader Excellus leadership team to align financial objectives with corporate goals. By providing expert financial oversight, Robert Mercury ensures that Univera Healthcare effectively delivers its health plan services and contributes to the overall success of the Excellus family of companies.

Mark Ruszczyk, the Chief Marketing Officer at Excellus, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and member engagement. Ruszczyk oversees all advertising, public relations, and digital marketing efforts, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. This role involves analyzing market trends and consumer behavior to identify opportunities for service expansion and improved outreach. The Chief Marketing Officer collaborates closely with sales and product development teams to align marketing campaigns with business objectives. By driving innovative communication initiatives, Mark Ruszczyk strengthens Excellus's market position and fosters deeper connections with the communities it serves, ultimately supporting the company's mission of delivering accessible health care solutions.

Cynthia Langston, the Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer at Excellus, leads the company's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Langston directs the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, and data management systems to support business operations and enhance member experience. This role involves overseeing all aspects of information technology, including software development, network operations, and technical support. The Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer collaborates with executive peers to leverage technology for operational efficiency and innovation. By driving technological advancements, Cynthia Langston ensures Excellus remains competitive and secure in the digital landscape, facilitating the delivery of high-quality, accessible healthcare services.

Jamie Kerr, the Chief Medical Officer at Excellus, provides clinical leadership and strategic direction for the organization's healthcare services and quality initiatives. Kerr oversees medical policy development, clinical program management, and healthcare quality improvement efforts, ensuring evidence-based practices are integrated throughout the company. This role involves collaborating with providers, health systems, and internal clinical teams to enhance patient care outcomes and member satisfaction. The Chief Medical Officer guides the company's approach to population health management and clinical innovation. By championing clinical excellence, Jamie Kerr ensures Excellus delivers high-quality, effective, and compassionate healthcare solutions that meet the diverse needs of its members.