Highmark Health names ex-UnitedHealth exec as COO – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Pittsburgh – Highmark Health appointed Heather Cianfrocco as its chief operating officer on May 5, effective immediately.[1][2] A Pittsburgh native who recently departed UnitedHealth Group after 24 years, Cianfrocco steps into the position previously held by company President Karen Hanlon.[2] The move bolsters Highmark’s leadership as it pursues operational efficiencies amid rising healthcare costs.
From Optum CEO to Highmark Executive
Cianfrocco brings extensive experience from UnitedHealth Group, where she most recently served as executive vice president of governance, compliance, and information security.[3] Earlier, she led Optum as CEO, directing its three main segments: Optum Health, OptumRx, and Optum Insight.[1] Her career also included stints as president and CEO of OptumRx and CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community & State.
Recognized as one of Modern Healthcare’s 10 executives to watch in 2025, Cianfrocco graduated from Penn State University and earned her law degree from Duquesne University.[1] She serves on the board of the Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania. Her departure from UnitedHealth came in late February 2026.[2]
Overseeing Vast Operations in a Challenging Landscape
In her new role, Cianfrocco will manage operations across Highmark Health’s affiliates, including Highmark Inc., which insures about 7 million people in Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia, and parts of New York.[2] The organization also encompasses the 14-hospital Allegheny Health Network and enGen, its health technology arm. Highmark Health employs more than 44,000 people and serves millions nationwide.[1]
The company posted a net loss of $175 million on $32.4 billion in revenue for 2025, pressured by elevated medical spending.[2] Cianfrocco reports to President Karen Hanlon, who retains oversight of the Living Health strategy – a framework aimed at enhancing access, outcomes, and affordability in healthcare.[1]
Key Leadership Perspectives
“Heather is an exceptionally talented and accomplished health care executive with more than 20 years of experience and success leading large, complex health care organizations.” – Karen Hanlon, Highmark Health President[1]
“We have boldly said that we want to be one of the organizations that solves the complex and fragmented health care system.” – David Holmberg, Highmark Health CEO[1]
Coming Home to Advance Living Health
Cianfrocco expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am honored to join the Highmark Health team…. It feels like coming home.”[1] Highmark Health’s Living Health model seeks to set new benchmarks through innovative products and services that curb costs while improving patient experiences.
Hanlon will continue spearheading this initiative as the industry grapples with fragmentation and escalating expenses. Cianfrocco’s national perspective positions her to help expand Highmark’s influence.[1]
Highmark Health’s latest hire signals a push for transformation at a pivotal moment, with Cianfrocco poised to streamline operations and support the organization’s growth trajectory.
