At Humana, a Changing of the Guard

Commentary August 26, 2010 at 12:29 PM
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As Humana nears its 50th anniversary next year, a major change in its leadership is underway. David A. Jones Jr., son of the health care giants founder, has voluntarily resigned from his post as chairman of the board. Taking his place immediately is Humana CEO Michael B. McCallister, who was voted unanimously to the position by the board.

Michael McCallister

Jones will remain active on the board, according to Humana sources, and the change in leadership is said to be an amicable one. David and the Board are very pleased with Mikes strategic direction and leadership, and they felt that he deserved the opportunity to be Chairman at this point in the companys history, Humana told me. Hes been CEO for 10 years, and weve had a remarkable run of growth and success during that time.

Indeed: McCallister has been with Humana for 34 years, and in 2008, he was voted by Forbes magazine as one of Americas top CEOs when it came to creating shareholder value. During the last decade, Humanas stock price showed slow growth for the first few years of McCallisters tenure, surging dramatically from 2004-2008, at which point it dipped and has shown steady recovery ever since.

As for Jones, he will remain on Humanas board. He is also the founder and managing director of Chrysalis Ventures, a Louisville-based venture capital firm.

Its been a privilege to serve as Humanas chairman, Jones said of the change. I am proud of the companys growth, innovation and promise, and Im confident in Mike McCallisters leadership and strategic vision.

Best of luck both to Mr. Jones on continuing efforts with both Chrysalis and Humana, and to Mr. McCallister in his new position, but judging by their respective track records, it doesnt look like theyll need it.

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