Priority Health Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Priority Health has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operational oversight, clinical quality, and healthcare innovation.

Focused on expanding access to affordable coverage, Priority Health delivers comprehensive health benefits to over one million members while driving transparency and product innovation across the Michigan insurance market.

Leadership Roles at Priority Health

  • Chief Executive Officer - Michael Freed
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Kimberly Horn
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Joan Budden
  • Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science - Ines Md
  • President - Nick Gates
  • Chief Medical Officer - Dr Richard Vienne
  • Michael Freed - Chief Executive Officer

    Michael Freed, the Chief Executive Officer at Priority Health, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term financial stability of the organization. Overseeing the expansion of health benefit portfolios, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that employer groups and individuals receive high-quality coverage options. This leadership role involves managing complex relationships with regional healthcare providers to maintain a robust network of primary care physicians. By prioritizing transparency and operational efficiency, Michael Freed strengthens the market position of the company within the competitive insurance landscape. The Chief Executive Officer also collaborates with the Board to align organizational goals with the evolving needs of the Michigan population. Through rigorous oversight of fiscal health and member satisfaction metrics, Freed secures the continued growth of the enterprise while maintaining the core mission of providing accessible, quality healthcare solutions to all members.

    Kimberly Horn - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Kimberly Horn, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Priority Health, manages the daily operational execution and strategic implementation of health plan services. Focusing on the Medicare and Medicaid segments, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that improve member outcomes and streamline service delivery. This role requires constant coordination with internal departments to ensure that product offerings remain competitive and compliant with regulatory standards. By fostering a culture of excellence, Kimberly Horn enhances the reputation of the company for superior customer service and quality care. The President & Chief Executive Officer also evaluates market trends to identify new opportunities for growth within the regional insurance sector. Through the application of data-driven insights, Horn optimizes the delivery of health benefits, ensuring that the organization meets the diverse needs of its extensive member base across the state.

    Joan Budden - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Joan Budden, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Priority Health, leads the strategic development of individual and group health insurance products. Concentrating on market penetration and brand positioning, the President & Chief Executive Officer architects programs that simplify the member experience and increase plan accessibility. This leadership function involves engaging with community stakeholders to promote wellness and preventative care initiatives throughout the region. By championing product innovation, Joan Budden ensures that the company remains at the forefront of the healthcare industry. The President & Chief Executive Officer also oversees the integration of new digital tools to improve member engagement and administrative efficiency. Through consistent focus on quality and service, Budden drives the organization toward achieving its long-term objectives, ultimately supporting the health and well-being of over one million members served by the company.
    Joan Budden

    Ines Md - Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science

    Ines Md, the Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science at Priority Health, directs the application of advanced analytics to improve clinical outcomes and operational performance. Overseeing the development of predictive models, the Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science identifies patterns in member health data to tailor personalized care interventions. This role involves collaborating with technology teams to build scalable infrastructure that supports real-time data processing and decision-making. By leveraging scientific research, Ines Md drives the creation of innovative health solutions that address complex medical challenges. The Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science also ensures that all data-driven strategies align with the broader mission of enhancing transparency and quality within the insurance portfolio. Through the integration of cutting-edge science, Md transforms raw information into actionable insights that improve the overall value of the health plans provided to members.

    Nick Gates - President

    Nick Gates, the President at Priority Health, manages the tactical execution of business operations and the alignment of departmental functions with corporate goals. Overseeing the day-to-day activities of the organization, the President ensures that all business units operate with maximum efficiency to support the delivery of health benefits. This role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to implement new product launches and service enhancements. By focusing on operational excellence, Nick Gates drives the company toward achieving its growth targets while maintaining high levels of member satisfaction. The President also monitors the competitive landscape to adjust business strategies in response to market shifts. Through the effective management of resources and personnel, Gates ensures that the organization remains a leader in the insurance industry, consistently providing quality coverage options to individuals and employer groups throughout the region.
    Nick Gates

    Dr Richard Vienne - Chief Medical Officer

    Dr Richard Vienne, the Chief Medical Officer at Priority Health, governs the clinical quality standards and medical management policies across the entire organization. Overseeing the network of primary care physicians, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that all medical services meet rigorous benchmarks for safety and effectiveness. This leadership role involves working closely with the executive team to design care management programs that support members with chronic conditions. By evaluating clinical evidence, Dr Richard Vienne guides the development of coverage policies that prioritize patient-centered care and improved health outcomes. The Chief Medical Officer also facilitates communication between the company and the medical community to foster collaborative relationships that benefit the member population. Through the continuous monitoring of clinical performance metrics, Vienne maintains the high standards of quality and transparency that define the reputation of the company in the healthcare market.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Priority Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Priority Health?
    Priority Health is led by Michael Freed (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kimberly Horn (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Joan Budden (President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Priority Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Priority Health includes leaders such as Michael Freed (Chief Executive Officer), Kimberly Horn (President & Chief Executive Officer), Joan Budden (President & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Priority Health have?
    Priority Health has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Priority Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Priority Health includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science, President.