Paul Markovich Appointed CEO of California Blue Shield
Blue Shield of CaliforniaSAN FRANCISCO, CA (May 23, 2012)--- Bruce Bodaken announced today he will retire as Chairman, President and CEO of Blue Shield of California at the end of the year.
During Bodaken’s tenure at the not-for-profit health plan, Blue Shield grew rapidly, won numerous large public-sector contracts, proposed a plan for universal healthcare coverage that became a model for the country, and launched a foundation that is one of the most important funders of the healthcare safety net and domestic violence programs in California. The company also developed one of the nation’s first accountable care organizations, created an award-winning wellness program that has improved employee health dramatically, constructed three new energy-efficient campuses for Blue Shield’s 4,800 employees, and launched a formal corporate social responsibility program. This year, Blue Shield was named one of the world’s most ethical companies by the Ethisphere Institute.
In 2011, Blue Shield became the first health plan in the country to cap its net income – at 2 percent of revenue – and return the difference to its customers and the community. The company paid out nearly $475 million last year.
“It has been a privilege to lead Blue Shield and I am proud of our accomplishments,” said Bodaken. “We are devoted to our mission of providing access to affordable, high quality health care to all Californians. We have consistently innovated to improve the healthcare system during a time of tumultuous change in our industry.”
The company also announced that current Chief Operating Officer Paul Markovich will become President of Blue Shield and a member of its board of directors on June 1, 2012. With Bodaken's departure, Markovich will assume the position of CEO in January, 2013.
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