Priority Health Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Priority Health has 5 executives leading key functions including marketing, strategy, innovation, medical affairs, and overall leadership.

Driven by a commitment to member well-being, Priority Health offers an extensive portfolio of health benefits options, serving over one million members annually and recognized for quality, customer service, transparency, and product innovation.

Leadership Roles at Priority Health

  • Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science - Ines Md
  • President - Nicholas Gates
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Joan Budden
  • Manager, Strategy & Operations & Chief of Staff - Rebeca Wiser
  • Chief Medical Officer - James Byrne
  • Ines Md - Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science

    Ines Md, the Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science at Priority Health, spearheads the company's advancements in healthcare technology and data analytics. This executive directs the exploration and implementation of cutting-edge solutions to enhance member experience and operational effectiveness. Md's leadership focuses on leveraging data science to drive product innovation and improve the quality of health benefits offered, including Medicare and Medicaid plans. The objective is to identify new opportunities for growth and efficiency within the complex healthcare market. By championing data-driven insights, Ines Md ensures Priority Health remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation and maintains its commitment to transparency and customer service.

    Nicholas Gates - President

    Nicholas Gates, the President at Priority Health, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Leading the company's extensive portfolio of health benefits options, Gates ensures Priority Health maintains its standing as a top health plan in Michigan, serving over one million members annually. This executive role involves fostering a culture of innovation and customer-centricity, driving the company's commitment to quality, transparency, and product development. Gates oversees key functions that support the broad network of primary care physicians and the delivery of Medicare and Medicaid plans. By guiding strategic growth and operational excellence, Nicholas Gates reinforces Priority Health's market leadership and its mission to provide affordable, quality health coverage.
    Nicholas Gates

    Joan Budden - Chief Marketing Officer

    Joan Budden, the Chief Marketing Officer at Priority Health, directs all brand strategy and market positioning initiatives. Overseeing the development and execution of integrated marketing campaigns, Budden ensures consistent brand messaging across all channels, supporting the company's mission to provide affordable, quality health coverage. This leadership role involves driving member acquisition and retention through data-informed strategies and innovative outreach programs. By analyzing market trends and consumer behavior, Joan Budden enhances Priority Health's competitive edge in the Michigan health insurance landscape. The Chief Marketing Officer's efforts directly contribute to expanding the company's reach and reinforcing its reputation for transparency and customer service.
    Joan Budden

    Rebeca Wiser - Manager, Strategy & Operations & Chief of Staff

    Rebeca Wiser, the Manager, Strategy & Operations & Chief of Staff at Priority Health, manages critical operational workflows and strategic planning processes. This role involves coordinating cross-functional initiatives to ensure alignment with the company's overarching business objectives and operational efficiency goals. Wiser supports the executive leadership team by facilitating communication and driving the implementation of key strategic projects. The focus is on optimizing internal operations and enhancing the delivery of health benefits options to employer groups and individuals. By streamlining processes and providing operational oversight, Rebeca Wiser contributes to Priority Health's continuous recognition as a leader in product innovation and customer service.

    James Byrne - Chief Medical Officer

    James Byrne, the Chief Medical Officer at Priority Health, provides critical clinical leadership and oversight for all healthcare-related strategies and initiatives. Byrne directs the medical affairs division, ensuring the quality and appropriateness of care delivered through Priority Health's extensive network of primary care physicians. This role is pivotal in shaping the clinical direction of the company's health benefits options, including Medicare and Medicaid plans, aligning medical practice with business objectives. The Chief Medical Officer's expertise guides the development of evidence-based health programs and supports the company's commitment to transparency and member well-being. Through strategic medical guidance, James Byrne reinforces Priority Health's position as a trusted leader in Michigan's health insurance sector.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Priority Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Priority Health?
    Priority Health is led by Ines Md (Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science), along with executives such as Nicholas Gates (President) and Joan Budden (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of Priority Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Priority Health includes leaders such as Ines Md (Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science), Nicholas Gates (President), Joan Budden (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Priority Health have?
    Priority Health has 5 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, Healthcare Innovation & Data Science, President, Chief Marketing Officer, Manager, Strategy & Operations & Chief of Staff, Chief Medical Officer.