Highmark Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Highmark has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, marketing, and staff support.

Driven by a commitment to health and wellness, Highmark provides comprehensive insurance products and administrative services, impacting healthcare delivery across multiple states and serving diverse patient populations.

Leadership Roles at Highmark

  • Chief Executive Officer & Chairman of the Board, Highmark Inc. - David Holmberg
  • Chief Financial Officer - Katherine Musler
  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Carl Daley
  • Chief Financial Officer, Government Markets - Caleb Knier
  • Chief Operating Officer - Brian Gilbert
  • Chief of Staff & President, Office - Pamela Kinley
  • Chief of Staff & President, Office - Manda Sanders
  • Chief Technology Officer - Verner Tepe
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Craig Riner
  • Chief Technology Officer, Provider Services - Paul Sikora
  • David Holmberg - Chief Executive Officer & Chairman of the Board, Highmark Inc.

    David Holmberg, the Chief Executive Officer & Chairman of the Board, Highmark Inc., directs the overarching strategy and governance for the not-for-profit health insurer. Holmberg guides the organization's mission to provide accessible and affordable health insurance products and services across its operational footprint. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for Highmark's diverse portfolio, which includes underwriting indemnity and managed care health insurance for national, regional, and individual accounts, alongside specialized Medicare supplemental, dental, and vision plans. Overseeing Medicare contract administration and claims adjudication for providers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia, David Holmberg ensures operational efficiency and compliance. The Chairman of the Board's responsibilities extend to fostering innovation and ensuring the long-term financial health and market impact of Highmark's for-profit subsidiaries and its core insurance operations.
    David Holmberg

    Katherine Musler - Chief Financial Officer

    Katherine Musler, the Chief Financial Officer, directs Highmark's financial strategy and fiscal health. Musler manages the financial operations supporting the underwriting of indemnity and managed care health insurance products for national, regional, and individual accounts, as well as specialized offerings like Medicare supplemental, dental, and vision insurance. This role involves rigorous financial planning, budgeting, and risk management to ensure the sustainability of Highmark's not-for-profit mission and its for-profit subsidiaries. The Chief Financial Officer oversees the financial aspects of claims adjudication and administrative services provided to hospitals and other health care practitioners across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. Katherine Musler ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements, particularly concerning Medicare contract administration. Musler's strategic financial oversight is crucial for maintaining Highmark's market position and its ability to invest in innovative healthcare solutions.
    Katherine Musler

    Carl Daley - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Carl Daley, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, manages Highmark's financial integrity and capital structure. Daley oversees all financial planning, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring robust financial controls and compliance with regulatory requirements. This leadership position is critical for supporting the underwriting of indemnity and managed care health insurance products for national, regional, and individual accounts, as well as specialized offerings. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer ensures the sound financial management of claims adjudication and administrative services provided to healthcare providers across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. Carl Daley's responsibilities include managing investment portfolios, optimizing cash flow, and securing the financial resources necessary for Highmark's strategic growth and operational stability. Daley's expertise is fundamental to maintaining Highmark's financial strength and its commitment to its not-for-profit mission.
    Carl Daley

    Caleb Knier - Chief Financial Officer, Government Markets

    Caleb Knier, the Chief Financial Officer, Government Markets, directs the financial strategy and oversight for Highmark's government-focused health insurance programs. Knier manages the financial operations specific to Medicare and other government-sponsored health plans, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. This role is crucial for the financial sustainability of Medicare supplemental products and Highmark's operations as a Medicare contract administrator. The Chief Financial Officer, Government Markets, oversees the financial performance and reporting for these specialized segments, ensuring profitability and adherence to budget. Caleb Knier's responsibilities include developing financial models, managing revenue streams, and controlling costs within the government markets division. Knier's financial acumen is essential for navigating the complexities of government healthcare programs and supporting Highmark's commitment to serving these vital populations.

    Brian Gilbert - Chief Operating Officer

    Brian Gilbert, the Chief Operating Officer, executes the day-to-day operational strategies that support Highmark's mission. Gilbert oversees the complex network of administrative services, including claims adjudication for hospitals, institutional providers, physicians, and other health care practitioners across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. This critical function ensures the seamless processing of services for millions of members. The Chief Operating Officer drives efficiency and effectiveness in the underwriting of various indemnity and managed care health insurance products for national, regional, and individual accounts. Brian Gilbert's leadership also extends to the operational management of Medicare supplemental, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance products, ensuring Highmark meets its contractual obligations as a Medicare contract administrator. Gilbert's focus remains on optimizing service delivery and enhancing the member and provider experience.
    Brian Gilbert

    Pamela Kinley - Chief of Staff & President, Office

    Pamela Kinley, the Chief of Staff & President, Office, provides strategic support and operational coordination across Highmark's executive leadership. Kinley facilitates the execution of key initiatives and ensures alignment between departmental objectives and the company's overall mission. This role involves managing critical projects and driving cross-functional collaboration to enhance the delivery of health insurance products and administrative services. The Chief of Staff & President, Office, plays a vital part in streamlining operations related to underwriting, claims adjudication, and Medicare contract administration across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. Pamela Kinley's responsibilities include optimizing internal processes and supporting the strategic decision-making of the executive team. Kinley's focus is on driving operational excellence and ensuring the efficient functioning of Highmark's diverse business units.

    Manda Sanders - Chief of Staff & President, Office

    Manda Sanders, the Chief of Staff & President, Office, provides executive-level support and strategic coordination across Highmark's leadership functions. Sanders works closely with senior executives to drive key initiatives, manage complex projects, and ensure operational alignment with the company's mission. This role involves facilitating communication and collaboration among various departments, enhancing the efficiency of health insurance product delivery and administrative services. The Chief of Staff & President, Office, plays a crucial role in overseeing the operational aspects of claims adjudication and provider services across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. Manda Sanders' responsibilities include optimizing internal workflows and supporting strategic decision-making to foster growth and innovation. Sanders' focus is on enhancing organizational effectiveness and ensuring the smooth execution of Highmark's strategic priorities.

    Verner Tepe - Chief Technology Officer

    Verner Tepe, the Chief Technology Officer, architects Highmark's technology infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives. Tepe drives the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance the delivery of health insurance products and administrative services. This includes overseeing the technology supporting the underwriting of indemnity and managed care health insurance for national, regional, and individual accounts, as well as specialized products like Medicare supplemental, dental, and vision insurance. The Chief Technology Officer ensures the robustness and security of systems used for claims adjudication and administrative services for providers across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. Verner Tepe's strategic vision guides Highmark's adoption of cutting-edge technologies to improve operational efficiency, member experience, and data analytics capabilities. Tepe's leadership is pivotal in leveraging technology to support Highmark's mission and expand its market reach.

    Craig Riner - Chief Marketing Officer

    Craig Riner, the Chief Marketing Officer, shapes and executes Highmark's brand strategy and market engagement initiatives. Riner directs the marketing efforts for a comprehensive suite of health insurance products, including indemnity and managed care plans for national, regional, and individual accounts, as well as Medicare supplemental, dental, and vision insurance. This involves developing targeted campaigns to reach diverse customer segments and communicate the value of Highmark's offerings. The Chief Marketing Officer oversees the promotion of Highmark's role as a Medicare contract administrator and its provider services across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. Craig Riner's strategic approach focuses on enhancing brand awareness, driving member acquisition, and fostering customer loyalty. Riner ensures that Highmark's marketing communications accurately reflect its commitment to health and wellness and its position as a leading not-for-profit health insurer.
    Craig Riner

    Paul Sikora - Chief Technology Officer, Provider Services

    Paul Sikora, the Chief Technology Officer, Provider Services, leads the technological innovation and infrastructure supporting Highmark's relationships with healthcare providers. Sikora focuses on developing and implementing technology solutions that streamline administrative services, claims adjudication, and data exchange between Highmark and its network of hospitals, physicians, and other practitioners across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. The Chief Technology Officer, Provider Services, ensures that technology enhances operational efficiency, improves communication, and supports the accurate and timely processing of payments. Paul Sikora's strategic direction guides the adoption of advanced technologies to optimize provider engagement and satisfaction. Sikora's expertise is critical in leveraging technology to strengthen provider partnerships and ensure the seamless delivery of healthcare services.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Highmark Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Highmark?
    Highmark is led by David Holmberg (Chief Executive Officer & Chairman of the Board, Highmark Inc.), along with executives such as Katherine Musler (Chief Financial Officer) and Carl Daley (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer).
    Who is part of Highmark’s executive team?
    The executive team of Highmark includes leaders such as David Holmberg (Chief Executive Officer & Chairman of the Board, Highmark Inc.), Katherine Musler (Chief Financial Officer), Carl Daley (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Highmark have?
    Highmark has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Highmark’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Highmark includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Chairman of the Board, Highmark Inc., Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer, Government Markets, Chief Operating Officer.