California, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Blue Shield of California has named Mike Stuart as its new president and CEO effective August 26, 2025. With over 20 years of healthcare leadership, including his recent role as CFO, Stuart is expected to drive the organization’s mission of providing affordable care. The board is confident in his ability to lead over 6,500 employees and serve more than 6 million members while focusing on community impact and financial sustainability.
California—Blue Shield of California has announced Mike Stuart as the new president and chief executive officer as of August 26, 2025. This major appointment marks a significant milestone for the nonprofit health plan that serves millions of members across the state.
Stuart, who has been with Blue Shield since 2022 as the chief financial officer, brings over 20 years of leadership experience in the healthcare sector. His extensive background in navigating complex challenges within the healthcare industry is expected to assist in driving the organization’s mission to provide access to high-quality care that is sustainably affordable.
Kirstina Leslie, chair of Blue Shield’s board, expressed confidence in Stuart’s leadership, stating he is the “right leader at the right time” for the organization. Stuart’s deep understanding of the company’s mission and the healthcare landscape gives him a strategic advantage as he leads a workforce of over 6,500 employees and serves more than 6 million members across various health plans, including Medicaid and Medicare.
Under Stuart’s leadership, Blue Shield aims to advance its core values of collaboration and community support, particularly focusing on broadening services for military families and members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). This focus aligns with the company’s ongoing efforts to ensure financial sustainability and affordability in healthcare.
Stuart expressed his honor in leading Blue Shield during this critical time for both California and the broader healthcare industry. His strategic vision is poised to make a considerable impact as the organization continues to adapt to the changing healthcare environment.
With an MBA in Finance from Saint Mary’s College of California and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Chico, Stuart’s academic background complements his practical experience in the field. His leadership as CFO has already showcased his capability to enhance the organization’s financial health while making healthcare more affordable.
Founded in 1939, Blue Shield of California operates as a nonprofit health plan, boasting over $27 billion in annual revenue. The organization is also recognized for fostering a workplace culture that empowers women, earning a position on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers for Women in 2025. In addition, Blue Shield has contributed over $60 million to the Blue Shield of California Foundation in the past three years, reinforcing its commitment to community impact across the state.
Blue Shield places a strong emphasis on integrity, purpose-driven partnerships, and the accessibility of healthcare. The organization has a proven track record of collaborating effectively with healthcare providers, ensuring that high-quality care is not only available but affordable for all Californians.
FAQs
Who is the new president and CEO of Blue Shield of California?
Mike Stuart has been appointed as the new president and CEO of Blue Shield of California as of August 26, 2025.
What qualifications does Mike Stuart have?
Mike Stuart has over 20 years of experience in healthcare and holds an MBA in Finance from Saint Mary’s College of California and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Chico.
What is the mission of Blue Shield of California?
The mission of Blue Shield of California is to provide access to high-quality care that is sustainably affordable for its members.
What has Blue Shield of California achieved recently?
The organization has been recognized for empowering women in the workplace and has contributed over $60 million to the Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last three years for community impact.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Industry Experience | Over 20 years in healthcare leadership |
| Annual Revenue | $27 billion |
| Workforce Size | 6,500 employees |
| Membership | 6 million members |
| Community Contribution | Over $60 million to Blue Shield Foundation |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Blue Shield of California Named to Forbes’ America’s Best Employers for Women
- Blue Shield of California Announces New CEO
- Blue Shield Awards $300,000 to Oakland Nonprofits
- Wikipedia: Blue Shield of California
- Google Search: Healthcare Leadership
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