OAKLAND, Calif. (March 11, 2025) – Blue Shield of California, the nonprofit health plan serving the state’s residents since 1939, today announced that its board of directors has appointed Mike Stuart, the health plan’s chief financial officer, as interim president and chief executive officer. Stuart succeeds Lois Quam, who is stepping down from her role as president and chief executive officer, effective immediately. The board will begin a formal search for a permanent successor.
“Blue Shield of California is very fortunate to have Mike, an exceptional senior leader, to step into the role of interim CEO,” said Kristina (Kris) Leslie, chair of the board. “Mike has a deep understanding of our operations and a dedication to our mission, and the board is confident that he will capably lead the execution of our vision to transform the healthcare system.”
“We want to thank Lois for her contributions and her commitment to our employees, providers and members,” Leslie added. “We wish her well as she moves on to new opportunities.”
Stuart brings over 22 years of experience in health care and over a decade of experience with Blue Shield of California, tackling the biggest challenges in health care and helping the organization innovate and create a healthcare system that is sustainably affordable. He has served as the health plan’s CFO since October 2022, and before that as the senior vice president of Finance.
“I am honored to serve Blue Shield of California in this interim role,” said Stuart. “I look forward to working with the board and the entire Blue Shield of California team to execute our vision and implement the long-term transformational strategies necessary to ensure that quality health care is more affordable and accessible for all Californians.”
“I am thankful for the opportunity to have served Blue Shield of California and proud of the accomplishments of my team,” said Quam. “Blue Shield of California understands the healthcare challenges facing everyday Americans and is committed to finding solutions to improve our caregiving system. That is a commitment I share and one that I will take forward to my next leadership role.”
About Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. The health plan is a taxpaying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with nearly 6 million members, over 7,500 employees and more than $25 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid, and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $60 million to the Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last three years to have an impact on California communities. For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook.