Deborah Rice Johnson
About Deborah Rice Johnson
Deborah Rice Johnson serves as the CEO of Diversified Businesses and Chief Growth Officer at Highmark Inc., where she has significantly contributed to the company's growth and strategic partnerships. With a background in business management and extensive experience in the healthcare sector, she actively supports initiatives for veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Work at Highmark
Deborah Rice Johnson currently serves as the CEO of Diversified Businesses and Chief Growth Officer at Highmark Inc. since 2021. She previously held the position of President at Highmark Inc. from 2004 to 2021, where she contributed to the company’s growth in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Under her leadership, Highmark's revenue reached approximately $20 billion. She has overseen various subsidiaries, including United Concordia Dental, HM Insurance Group, and Helion. Johnson has played a key role in guiding Highmark through successful affiliations and mergers, enhancing its status as one of the largest Blue Plans in the United States.
Education and Expertise
Deborah Rice Johnson studied Business Management at Carlow University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Her educational background has equipped her with the skills necessary for her leadership roles in the healthcare sector. Johnson's expertise includes strategic growth, clinical alliances, and organizational management, particularly in the context of healthcare services and insurance.
Background
Deborah Rice Johnson has extensive experience in the healthcare industry, having worked at Highmark Inc. for 17 years. During her tenure, she spearheaded affiliations and clinical alliances with major health systems, including Penn State Health, Geisinger Health System, and Lehigh Valley. Her commitment to community service is evident in her active support for private-sector hiring efforts for military veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Achievements
Under Deborah Rice Johnson's leadership, Highmark Inc. expanded its influence and operations significantly. She has served on the boards of several organizations, including the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Additionally, she holds the position of board president for Variety – the Children’s Charity and is the board chair emeritus of the Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania.