Blues plan hires Aetna's Michael Guyette as CEO

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota is hoping second time's the charm after naming Aetna's Michael Guyette its second CEO in only six months time.

Guyette previously served as Aetna's president of national accounts, overseeing operational performance and business strategy for the insurer. Before that, he held senior positions with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, Independence Blue Cross and AmeriHealth, reported Twin Cities Business.

The Minnesota Blues incoming CEO said he's glad to be returning to the nonprofit industry. "I had roughly 13 years in the Blue system (and the) nonprofit world," Guyette told the Pioneer Press. "To me, healthcare is local--you have to be very connected on a local basis with your providers and your community. That's where I see nonprofits showing their strength."

Taking the helm of an insurance company amid the health reform law's rolling implementation will be challenging, and Guyette said time is of the essence. Although the Minnesota Blues "has done a lot of work already," Guyette said he will bring his previous experience in operations, sales, marketing and underwriting to help the insurer comply with the law.

"Healthcare continues to change very rapidly," he told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "We want to make sure we have the right strategy for the next three to five years."

Guyette replaces former CEO Kenneth Burdick, who was pushed out after only six months amid culture and leadership concerns.

To learn more:
- see the Twin Citites Business article
- read the Pioneer Press article
- check out the Minneapolis Star Tribune article

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