‘I believe in the importance of championing women as the key contributors and decisionmakers they are’

Karen Lynch Executive vice president, CVS Health and president, Aetna business unit

As care delivery transforms with new technology and data models, Karen Lynch is positioning CVS Health-Aetna ahead of the curve. She is leading Aetna through its recent combination with CVS Health, bringing simpler and more responsive practices to consumers for more affordable prices.

Lynch has helped Aetna grow its government Medicare Advantage membership and premiums by 8%.

“I’d like to be thought of as an innovator and leader in creating a holistic health system,” she said. Lynch has launched community-based service programs for Aetna members as well as ones addressing the opioid crisis. She’s mentored and developed programs to introduce women employees to senior management positions.

“I am committed to ensuring that others don’t experience gender or any other form of bias and are assessed based on the skills they bring to the table. I believe in the importance of championing women as the key contributors and decisionmakers they are,” she said.