Blue Cross VT CEO, Don George, announces retirement plan

BERLIN — Vermont's largest private health insurance provider will soon be in the market for a new chief executive officer, now that veteran President and CEO Don George has signaled he plans to retire from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont next January.

George, who has worked for Blue Cross VT for more than three decades, and spent the past 16 years as its chief executive, recently informed the company's board of directors, and its employees, of his retirement plans.

George is described as a "respected and visionary leader" in a press release announcing his looming retirement and a "recruitment and transition process" that will begin "immediately."

Blue Cross VT plans to launch a national search for George's successor with an eye toward swiftly identifying a candidate capable of guiding the organization through the challenges in health care and allowing for some administrative overlap. The vision for the transition is to hire someone who will have ample time to benefit from George's local knowledge and years of experience before he retires.

In a prepared statement, Charlie Smith, president of the Blue Cross VT Board, had high praise for the company's long-time CEO.

"For more than 30 years, Don George has been known for building strong strategic partnerships, leading the way on innovative products and services, cultivating a healthy organization and culture, and maintaining strong relationships," Smith said, adding, "His integrity and passion for people and teams is unmatched, and he has been an unwavering champion of local, nonprofit health insurance."

In announcing his plans to Blue Cross VT employees, George spoke highly of his time with the company.

"It has been the professional privilege of a lifetime to lead this company through periods of challenge, growth, and significant industry change," he said. "I am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved together, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to work alongside such a committed and talented team."

George said his career-ending decision was carefully considered.

"My decision to retire was not an easy one to make, but I know it's the right time," he said.

During his time at the helm of Blue Cross VT, George is credited with helping develop the Vermont Collaborative Care LLC (VCC), which is a joint-venture partnership with The Brattleboro Retreat that was designed to integrate physical and mental health care management. He also developed innovative workplace wellness programs and products for employer groups throughout Vermont, distinguishing Blue Cross VT as a health and wellness leader in the state.

George fostered an "employee-focused culture" at Blue Cross VT and, and most recently led a successful and innovative affiliation with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. The affiliation allows Vermonters to benefit from the technology and advanced capabilities of a large organization while continuing as Vermont's locally managed health plan.