Blue Shield of California has announced the appointment of Ellen Sexton (pictured above) as its executive vice president and chief growth officer.
In her new role, Sexton will oversee the performance and growth of all business lines, including employer-sponsored plans, individual and family plans, Medicare, and Medi-Cal. The nonprofit health plan provides coverage across all 58 counties in California.
Sexton will be responsible for expanding access to quality care while ensuring sustainability and affordability, aligning with Blue Shield’s mission to create a more equitable and efficient healthcare system.
Lois Quam, president of Blue Shield of California, said that Sexton’s background and expertise in addressing systemic challenges will contribute to the company’s vision.
"Her collaborative approach and passion for addressing systemic challenges make Ellen an exceptional fit for not only Blue Shield of California, but for our members and the communities we serve,” Quam said.
Before joining Blue Shield, Sexton served as chief operating officer at Curative, where she played a key role in launching an employer-based health insurance plan. She also held the position of chief operating officer for Humana’s Group business, managing a growth platform serving 15 million members across medical, dental, vision, and life insurance products.
Sexton’s previous experience includes leadership roles at UnitedHealthcare. As CEO of UnitedHealthcare’s Wisconsin Medicaid Health Plan, she worked on clinical innovation initiatives.
Additionally, she was involved in transitioning state and employer group retiree healthcare programs and launching a Part D prescription drug program that enrolled 5 million members.
Sexton holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. She has also served on Wisconsin’s Health Equity Council and is president of the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation board of directors.
Blue Shield of California highlighted Sexton’s appointment as part of its ongoing efforts to address systemic healthcare challenges and enhance services for its members and communities across the state.
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