PRM Consulting Group is conducting an executive search for an Executive Director for The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange (MHBE).
Introduction
Lead the Future of Health Coverage in Maryland
The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange (MHBE) is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven Executive Director to lead one of the nation's most successful state-based health insurance marketplaces. MHBE plays a critical role in ensuring Marylanders have access to affordable, high-quality health coverage through innovative affordability programs, technology-enabled service delivery, and a strong commitment to consumer experience.
Why Join MHBE?
• Mission-driven work that directly impacts Marylanders' access to health coverage
• Collaborative, high-performing leadership team
• Opportunity to drive innovation in consumer experience and public sector operations
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
Our Vision: High-quality, affordable health coverage for all Marylanders.
Mission Statement: We improve the health and well-being of Marylanders by connecting them with high-quality, affordable health coverage through innovation, technology, and customer service.
Values: Diverse & Inclusive | Innovative | Collaborative | Ethical
Main Purpose of Job
The Executive Director is the Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange (MHBE). The incumbent is responsible for the strategic direction, leadership, and oversight of the Administrative Services, Financial Management, Information Technology, Human Resources, Marketing, and Policy & Planning areas of MHBE, which enrolls 239,707 QHP members and 1.1 million Medicaid members each year. MHBE allows individuals seeking Medicaid coverage under the Modified Adjusted Gross Income categories, along with individuals and small businesses, to compare health plans and purchase health insurance in the private market, enhancing competition and providing the same advantages available to large employer groups.
The Executive Director will direct, administer, and manage the full operations of MHBE and is responsible for providing leadership and direction in formulating MHBE's strategic objectives and bringing them to the Board of Trustees for input, discussion, and decision. The Executive Director must develop and maintain effective relationships and communication with key stakeholders and the Executive and Legislative branches of federal and state government. This position reports directly to the Board of Trustees and serves at its pleasure; it oversees the entirety of MHBE's activities, working closely with the organization's senior managers, staff, and Board to
define and execute MHBE’s mission in light of its statutory responsibilities and the health insurance needs of individuals and small businesses.
Position Duties
Strategic & Organizational Leadership
• Set strategic direction and lead execution across all MHBE operations, including IT, Human Resources, Marketing, Consumer Assistance, Financial Management, Administrative Services, and Policy & Planning
• Formulate MHBE's strategic objectives and bring them to the Board of Trustees for input, discussion, and decision
• Ensure operational excellence and long-term sustainability
• Champion a culture aligned with MHBE's values: Diverse & Inclusive, Innovative, Collaborative, and Ethical
Board & Governance
• Report directly to and work in close partnership with the Board of Trustees
• Set and manage the strategic Board agenda, prepare materials, and facilitate Board discussion and decision-making
• Keep the Board informed on organizational performance, risk, regulatory developments, and strategic opportunities
• Ensure the organization operates in accordance with its statutory responsibilities and Board directives
Policy, Programs & Medicaid
• Oversee all major programs including QHP enrollment, Medicaid enrollment in coordination with the Department of Health, reinsurance, subsidies, and consumer assistance
• Manage MHBE's role in Medicaid enrollment under Modified Adjusted Gross Income categories, ensuring effective coordination with state partners
• Serve as the primary representative to the Governor, Legislature, Board of Trustees, and key
stakeholders
• Partner with community organizations and policymakers to advance equitable access to care
• Ensure responsible stewardship of public funds and compliance with applicable statutory and regulatory requirements
Operations & Internal Management
• Provide day-to-day oversight and direction to internal departments including IT, HR, Marketing, Financial Management, Consumer Assistance, Administrative Services, and Policy & Planning
• Lead a technology-driven marketplace with dedicated in-house IT and marketing teams, ensuring
operational stability and high-performing delivery
• Drive innovation in affordability, enrollment, and consumer experience
• Manage the organization's budget and financial performance with fiduciary responsibility for public funds
External Engagement
• Build and sustain effective collaboration across state agencies, federal partners, and external
stakeholders
• Maintain strong media and government relations in a highly visible public leadership role
• Represent MHBE in public-facing forums and serve as the primary voice of the organization to the media and public
Operating Environment
The Executive Director operates in a dynamic and highly visible environment requiring leadership across evolving federal and state healthcare policy, regulatory changes, and marketplace operations. MHBE has its own dedicated internal IT, marketing, and policy teams, which distinguishes it from many other state exchanges. The organization also manages both QHP and Medicaid enrollment, requiring the Executive Director to navigate both private market and government program dynamics simultaneously.
Minimum Qualifications
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's Degree required; Master's Degree in Public Health, Public Administration, Business
Administration, Public Policy, J.D., or equivalent strongly preferred
• 10+ years of high-level experience in the health insurance industry (private or public) and/or health insurance-related policy development, with significant knowledge of the Affordable Care Act and health care delivery system trends
• Strong knowledge of Maryland's legislative and regulatory environment
• 5+ years of supervisory/management experience
Key Skills & Attributes
• Strong executive communicator and relationship builder
• Strategic leader with demonstrated ability to drive execution and organizational impact
• Experience working with Boards, legislative bodies, and executive stakeholders
• Ability to lead in complex, fast-paced, and highly visible environments
Desired or Preferred Qualifications
The preferred candidate demonstrates:
• Understanding of the importance of creating an organized, transparent marketplace for Marylanders to purchase affordable, quality health coverage and to claim available federal tax credits and cost-sharing subsidies
• Experience with Medicaid policy and financing, including coordination with state health departments
• Knowledge of state legislative and budget processes and fiduciary responsibility for public funds
• Strong management and interpersonal skills with a commitment to fostering a high-performing team environment
• Strong public speaking and writing skills with astute understanding of media and government relations
• Experience making decisions in the public spotlight
• Ability to manage and work within a very fast-paced, quickly evolving organization and to steer and track multiple, complex priorities
• Executive leadership experience in complex, high-visibility organizations within the public sector,
regulated industries, or healthcare
• Experience leading large-scale operational organizations with significant technology, systems, or service delivery components
Special Requirements
For education obtained outside the U.S., a copy of the equivalent American education as determined by a foreign credential evaluation service must be provided prior to hire.
Selection Process
How to Apply
This is an Executive Service recruitment. A resume and cover letter must be submitted outlining qualifications and interest in the role.
Preferred method: Email resume and cover letter to ED_MHBE@prmconsulting.com
Mail option: 1814 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009, ATTN: MHBE Executive Director Search
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be evaluated based on education, training, and experience as they relate to the requirements of the position. All information concerning qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date.
Benefits
Further Instructions
MHBE is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Applications must be received no later than the close of business on the closing date.
People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
We thank our veterans for their service to our country and encourage them to apply.
Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the Federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.