EVP & Chief Strategy, Technology & Operations Officer, Independence Blue Cross

Michael R. Vennera is executive vice president and the chief strategy, technology and operations officer at Independence Health Group (Independence).

Mr. Vennera has been with Independence for nearly 27 years. During that time, he has held several leadership roles in various areas, including informatics, information systems, operations, and innovation. He brings a rare blend of expertise in strategic planning and deep understanding of IT innovation and health plan operations.

He has overseen numerous corporate initiatives. Those initiatives include launching new members, sales, and provider portals; increasing cybersecurity measures; developing new resources to better serve associates’ technology needs; and strengthening the company’s focus on equitable whole-person health by collecting and analyzing data to address algorithmic bias. In addition, Mr. Vennera has overseen a multi-year enterprise platform and operations transformation.

Mr. Vennera has also been instrumental in many of Independence’s strategic initiatives. His achievements include launching a corporate innovation program, initiating and managing a strategic investment portfolio, and leading the development of the company’s long-term strategy.

Mr. Vennera is a trustee of the Philadelphia Orchestra and serves on the Corporate Committee of the Franklin Institute Awards. He is active on the boards for Brighter Horizon, which supports first-generation college students and their families, and Fred’s Footsteps, which helps families by providing direct financial assistance for non-medical expenses.

Mr. Vennera is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in information systems.