Highmark Health Appoints Former UnitedHealth Executive Heather Cianfrocco as COO

Cianfrocco will oversee operations across Highmark’s insurance division, Highmark Inc., its 14-hospital system, Allegheny Health Network, and health technology business enGen.

Pittsburgh-based Highmark Health has appointed former UnitedHealth Group executive Heather Cianfrocco as chief operating officer, effective immediately, the company announced Tuesday.

Cianfrocco will oversee operations across Highmark’s insurance division, Highmark Inc., its 14-hospital system, Allegheny Health Network, and health technology business enGen. Highmark Inc. provides health coverage to nearly 7 million members across Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia, and New York.

The appointment comes as Highmark Health continues to manage elevated medical costs that weighed on its financial performance in 2025. The company reported a net loss of $175 million on revenue of $32.4 billion last year, amid broader industry pressure tied to rising healthcare spending.

At the same time, Highmark has been expanding its regional footprint through affiliation agreements with Blue Cross Blue Shield plans and provider networks. The company has also been advancing its “Living Health” strategy, aimed at integrating care delivery, insurance, and technology services to improve outcomes and reduce costs.

In a statement, Highmark Health CEO David Holmberg said Cianfrocco’s national healthcare experience would support the company’s operational and strategic priorities.

Cianfrocco replaces Karen Hanlon, who has served as COO since 2018. Hanlon will remain president of Highmark Health and continue leading the company’s Living Health strategy.

Before joining Highmark, Cianfrocco spent 24 years at UnitedHealth Group in several senior leadership roles. Most recently, she served as executive vice president of governance, compliance, and information security. She also previously led Optum, UnitedHealth’s health services business.

Cianfrocco announced her departure from UnitedHealth in February during a period of heightened scrutiny and financial pressure for the healthcare giant, which has been facing increased medical spending and regulatory attention tied to its business practices.

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