Priority Health Makes 2 Promotions [Manufacturing Close – Up]

In a move to strengthen its market presence, Priority Health announced the promotion of two executives.

According to a release, the Michigan-based health plan is making changes designed to expand its presence throughout the state, particularly in Southeast Michigan. Beginning June 4, Detroit native and experienced health plan professional Don Whitford will step into the newly created role of vice president, East Region, where he will be responsible for the long-term strategic development of the commercial and government markets in Southeast Michigan. Scott Norman will assume Whitford's current role as vice president, sales and client services. In this role, Norman will lead Priority Health's sales initiatives, including identifying new market opportunities that position the company for growth throughout Michigan.

"Don and Scott are talented professionals who are well suited for these new roles," said Joan Budden, chief marketing officer for Priority Health. "They both bring experience, creativity and a strong commitment to providing innovative solutions to Priority Health clients that allow us to better control health care costs over the long term.

"We appreciate Don and Scott for taking on new leadership challenges and congratulate them on these well-deserved promotions."

The company noted that Whitford brings more than 30 years of experience, as well as a deep knowledge of the Southeast Michigan market, to his new role with the company. Based in the company's Farmington Hills office, Whitford will lead a team responsible for expanding Priority Health's market presence through the development and implementation of sales, marketing and product development strategies. He will also be responsible for the company's community initiatives in this key region.

Whitford joined Priority Health in 2007 as the East Region sales and client services director. Over the past five years, he has played a strategic role in generating growth, accepting roles of increasing responsibility within the organization.

Based in the company's Grand Rapids headquarters, Norman will now have statewide responsibility for Priority Health's sales and client management teams. In addition to leading day-to-day sales activities, Norman will focus on enhancing relationships with clients and agents, account management, membership growth, opening new markets and assisting clients in understanding and implementing health care reform strategies.

Norman joined Priority Health in 2010 as the East Region sales and client services director and has more than 15 years of health insurance experience. Prior to joining the company, he was an independent agent for 13 years and managed the insurance division with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.

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