Senior Vice President Provider Network Engagement; Regional President, Utica Region
With the organization since: 1993.
In current position since: 2022, senior vice president); 2024, regional president.
Education: Bachelor of Science in engineering, Princeton University; Master of Business Administration,University of Rochester.
Career Highlights: Has delivered measurable impact—expanding value‑based payment arrangements to over 70% of Excellus BCBS’s insured population. Under his leadership, operational and quality performance improved, while saving hundreds of millions of dollars for the communities served by the organizatio, all accomplished through the establishment of long‑term strategic partnerships and the development of the accountable cost and quality agreement framework.
Current Affiliations: Board member, Mohawk Valley EDGE; member, Masonic Medical Research Institute Community Advisory Committee; board member, CNY Vision Alliance; Princeton University Schools Committee.
Skills that make you an effective leader? “I believe hard work and integrity are the foundation of strong leadership. Consistency and transparency are essential for building trust, so I strive to be open and honest in every interaction. I approach difficult circumstances head-on, focusing on solutions that create positive outcomes for everyone involved. In addition, I empower my team by providing clear direction, encouraging input, and giving them the autonomy to take ownership of their work. This combination of accountability, collaboration, and trust helps foster a culture where people feel valued and motivated to succeed.”
How do you describe your managerial philosophy or approach? “Employee engagement is essential to the success of an organization. Clarity around common goals and behaviors fosters trust among coworkers. I believe in a people-centered, transparent approach to management that values strong employee engagement and clear communication. I strive to be direct and honest while leading with kindness and respect, creating an environment of trust and psychological safety. I use humor thoughtfully to build connection, reduce tension and keep work human and enjoyable. By combining clarity, compassion and authenticity, I aim to empower individuals and align teams around shared goals.”
How do you personally demonstrate leadership and inspire your staff? “I demonstrate leadership by setting the tone through my own actions. I stay accessible and engaged so my team knows I’m right there with them, not above the work but in it—listening, problem‑solving and navigating challenges alongside them. Being present and available signals that their work matters and that I’m committed to our collective success. At the same time, I believe leadership is fundamentally about empowerment. I focus on giving people the tools, clarity and support they need, and then trusting them with real autonomy. I encourage open communication and actively seek input so decisions reflect both diverse perspectives and shared ownership. When people feel heard and trusted, they show up with more energy, creativity and confidence. By modeling collaboration, high standards, and mutual respect, I aim to create an environment where people feel valued and motivated to grow. My goal is for every team member to feel supported in doing their best work—and proud of what we achieve together.”
How do you see the healthcare industry changing in the next few years, and how will you prepare the organization for those changes? “As our population continues to age, the demand for elder care will grow significantly. This trend will require not only expanded services but also innovations in medications and procedures that help people live longer, healthier lives. At the same time, controlling costs remains critical to ensure healthcare stays affordable and accessible for everyone. We also recognize that while digital tools are convenient, many people still value personal, face-to-face interactions when navigating their health care options. To meet this need, we’ve opened resource centers in every region, staffed by knowledgeable team members who live and work in the communities they serve. These centers provide a welcoming environment where individuals can get answers, guidance, and support in person. Locally, the staff at the Resource Center of the Mohawk Valley in Washington Mills is doing great work to connect people with the best and most affordable plan options available every day. By combining advanced care solutions, cost management strategies, and a strong commitment to personal service, we’re positioning ourselves to meet the evolving needs of our members and communities.”
What are your top three priorities for your organization within the next year? “Keeping health care affordable, supporting quality health outcomes and investing in the communities we serve by collaborating with our community-based organizations to help identify challenges and opportunities for improvement.”
How can the healthcare industry in the region be improved? “Improving the healthcare system across the region is a complex challenge with no single, definitive solution. The issues facing Upstate New York span workforce shortages, funding pressures, aging infrastructure, and uneven access to care. All parts of the health care ecosystem will need to collaborate in the judicious use of our limited resources. We will also need the government to be strong partners. Thoughtful legislation, stable funding streams, and strategic investments are not optional; they are fundamental to strengthening rural hospitals, protecting affordable coverage, expanding access to essential services, and ensuring that communities across the region receive the care they deserve.”
Tell us one thing about you that people generally don’t know? “My grandfather and namesake was the inventor of Utica Grind, known as a signature regional crushed‑red‑pepper seasoning produced by Avico Spice. Avico Spice has been supplying hand‑selected spices since 1928, and its Utica Grind pepper became one of its unique regional offerings.”