Highmark is making a change at the top, with Karen Hanlon stepping to the role of CEO on Jan. 1.
The Pittsburgh-based insurer announced Tuesday that current CEO David Holmberg, who has held the title since 2014, will transition to executive chairman at Highmark. Hanlon, who is currently Highmark's president, will become the company's first female CEO.
At the helm of Highmark, Hanlon will spearhead strategy, operations and performance across Highmark's health plans, diversified businesses and Allegheny Health Network. She's spent nearly three decades at Highmark, in which time the organization grew from a $17 billion revenue business in 2014 to a projected $35 billion at the end of this year.
"As healthcare continues to evolve, our focus remains clear: making healthcare more affordable, simpler, and more effective for the people and communities we serve," Hanlon said in the announcement. "I am honored by the Board's confidence and grateful for the opportunity to lead this remarkable organization."
"Together, we will continue advancing our Living Health strategy, delivering remarkable health experiences, and transforming healthcare for future generations," she said.
Hanlon came to Highmark after a stint in public accounting at KPMG. She held multiple leadership roles on the finance team at Highmark before becoming chief financial officer in 2014. She stepped into the role of chief operating officer in 2018 and president in 2025.
Alongside Holmberg as CEO, Hanlon has been on the front lines of multiple critical initiatives, including recent integrations with HealthNow and Blue KC as well as the acquisition of Gateway Health. She also played a critical role in the formation of AHN, per the announcement.
Holmberg, meanwhile, will continue to serve the organization as executive chairman and work closely with Hanlon and the board in the transition period.
"Karen is an exceptional leader whose vision, operational expertise, and unwavering commitment to the people we serve have helped shape Highmark Health into the organization it is today," said Holmberg in the announcement. "She understands our business deeply, has earned the trust of our employees and stakeholders, and is the right leader to guide Highmark Health into its next chapter of growth and transformation."