Seattle – Regence BlueShield President Jonathan Hensley will retire on September 13. Hensley informed the company of his retirement plans earlier this year, and has been actively involved in developing a leadership transition plan while Regence BlueShield conducts a nationwide search for a new president. As part of this transition plan, Don Antonucci, president of Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, will lead the company in an interim capacity.

“Jonathan is a respected leader who has worked diligently over the years to build a foundation for our continued success in the important Washington market,” said Jared Short, president of Regence Insurance Holding Corporation. “He is well known for his dedication to our customers and members in Washington, and I would like to thank Jonathan for his commitment and service to our community and our employees.”

Hensley has over 25 years of experience in the health industry, including nearly 10 years of service with Regence BlueShield. He joined the organization as vice president of sales in 2004 and later returned to the company as president in 2008. During his tenure with Regence, Hensley led the plan’s strong business performance, including achieving a 94-percent customer retention rate, and an AM Best financial performance ranking of A (excellent). In addition, Hensley was instrumental in building transformational provider collaborations as the industry began its shift toward health care reform.

“Jonathan has been a valued member of the Regence team for many years, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors,” said Short. Hensley will work closely with the Regence executive team to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

About Regence BlueShield

Regence BlueShield is a leading health plan in Washington with nearly one million members, offering health, life and dental insurance. Regence BlueShield is a nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, and is affiliated with Regence BlueShield of Idaho, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon and Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah. Together, the companies serve more than two million members in the Northwest/Intermountain Region. The Regence affiliated companies are committed to improving the health of its members and communities, and to transforming the health care system. For more information, please visit www.regence.com or www.twitter.com/RegenceWA.

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