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by Kristin Rowan, Editor
Breaking News: UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty Steps Down
Citing “personal reasons” with no elaboration, UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty steps down from his position, effective immediately. Witty joined UnitedHealth Group in 2018 and became the company’s CEO in 2021. Despite overwhelming growth during Witty’s tenure, the company continues to face numerous setbacks.
UnitedHealth Group Struggles Since January
The shooting death of Brian Thompson, UnitedHealthcare CEO, in December seems to have set off an onslaught of setbacks for the insurance giant.
- Share prices have dropped 38% since December, from $503 down to $308
- The company recently cut its annual forecast, after first adjusting it down, causing the final 18% stock drop
- For the first time since 2008, UHG missed its forecasted earnings
- Statements from the company look to 2026 before growth resumes
New (Old) CEO
Stephen Hemsley is the new CEO of UnitedHealth Group, effective immediately. Hemsley, who currently serves as the director of the board, was the company’s CEO from 2006 to 2017. Hemsley will stay on as chairman of the board and company CEO. Witty will serve as senior adviser to Hemsley.
Contradictions and Conflicts
In an official statement regarding the leadership change, Hemsley said, “We are grateful for Andrew’s stewardship of UnitedHealth Group…. The Board and I have greatly valued his leadership and compassion as chief executive….”
On a call with investors, Hemsley said, “Many of the issues standing in the way of achieving our goals as well as our opportunities are largely within our control.”
During that same call, Hemsley said, “I’m deeply disappointed in and apologize for the performance setbacks we have encountered from both external and internal challenges.”
In addition to the conflicting statements, Hemsley will serve as CEO and Chairman of the Board, creating conflict and reducing oversight. The chairman of the board plays a key role in oversight, governance, and communication with the CEO. They also evaluate the CEO’s performance. Holding both roles, especially in light of the shareholder request for reports, may we be in the best interest of UnitedHealth Group, but probably not in the best interest of anyone else.
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Kristin Rowan has been working at The Rowan Report since 2008. She is the owner and Editor-in-chief of The Rowan Report, the industry’s most trusted source for care at home news, and speaker on Artificial Intelligence and Lone Worker Safety and state and national conferences.
She also runs Girard Marketing Group, a multi-faceted boutique marketing firm specializing in content creation, social media management, and event marketing. Connect with Kristin directly kristin@girardmarketinggroup.com or www.girardmarketinggroup.com
©2025 by The Rowan Report, Peoria, AZ. All rights reserved. This article originally appeared in The Rowan Report. One copy may be printed for personal use: further reproduction by permission only. editor@therowanreport.com
