He stepped up.
UnitedHealth Group recently named Tim Noel as the new CEO of its insurance division, UnitedHealthcare, following the tragic death of the previous CEO, Brian Thompson, in December. Noel, who had been leading the company’s Medicare and retirement business, has been with UnitedHealth since 2007. His extensive experience and commitment to improving healthcare for various stakeholders were highlighted in the company’s announcement.
UnitedHealthcare, the largest health insurer in the United States, provides benefits to more than 50 million Americans. Thompson, who was killed on December 4 in Manhattan, was about to attend a company event when he was shot in what authorities described as a “premeditated, targeted attack.” He had been with UnitedHealth for over two decades, holding several leadership positions, including chief financial officer for multiple divisions, before becoming the CEO of UnitedHealthcare.
Luigi Mangione was arrested in connection with Thompson’s murder, facing charges related to stalking, guns, a fake ID, and the murder itself. In addition to state charges in New York and Pennsylvania, Mangione faces federal charges. Following the crime, there was an outpouring of support for Thompson, with some online communities expressing frustration with the U.S. healthcare system and, in some cases, praising Mangione’s actions.
After the killing, UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty acknowledged the overwhelming support the company received from the public. He praised Thompson’s contributions, emphasizing his dedication to improving the healthcare system and finding solutions that benefited consumers, employers, and public health agencies. Despite the tragedy, UnitedHealth remains focused on expanding access to high-quality, affordable healthcare and is positioning itself for growth in 2025.
The company’s leadership remains committed to navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, with a focus on making it easier for both patients and providers to engage with healthcare services. UnitedHealth Group aims to continue its mission of making healthcare more accessible, even amid the challenges posed by Thompson’s death.
