Mary Brainerd announced today that she will retire as President and CEO of HealthPartners on June 1. Andrea Walsh, who has held a number of leadership positions at HealthPartners since 1994, has been named Brainerd’s successor. Mary shared this message with colleagues this afternoon:
It has been a privilege to work with such amazing colleagues for the past 24 years, and for 15 years as CEO at HealthPartners. Together, we have the honor of doing work that matters so very much to the people we serve; and our work truly makes a difference with every interaction, every day. I feel fortunate to share that work with you. There is no place I would rather be, except, of course, with my family. That is why it is bittersweet to let you know that I will be retiring June 1.
I am delighted to be the first to let you know that our Board of Directors has selected Andrea Walsh, Executive Vice President, to be the next President and CEO. This is a reflection of the trust and confidence our Board has in Andrea and in the organization. I know that Andrea will be an outstanding CEO; she is already an exceptional leader who has my confidence and support as she steps into this new role. She has been involved in the most important and meaningful work we have done both inside and outside the organization. She is a great listener who leads with both head and heart.
A few thoughts I want to share: HealthPartners best days are ahead. We have a strong foundation and we have accomplished so much together.
I particularly think about the combinations and mergers that have made us the organization we are today, our outstanding quality results, our focus on affordability and total cost of care.
And the work we’ve done to support those who experience mental illness, our Children’s Health Initiative and our priority of diversity and inclusion.
We’ve done that while growing (really important!) and achieving strong financial performance.
The people here are amazing! It is a great team, committed to our values. I never need to be reminded that people are any organization’s most important asset because I see that every day here in our work together. It is our team that brings head and heart, together, to life. I will miss being part of this team.
Thank you for the gift of working with you, of sharing the joys and challenges. And most important, the chance to do work that makes a difference for so many, every single day.
Sincerely,
Mary