Oakland, California (March 11, 2025) – California Blue Shield, a nonprofit health plan that has served state residents since 1939, announced today that its board has appointed Miksuture, the chief financial officer of the Health Plan, as interim president and chief executive officer. Stuart will replace Lois Quam, who has stepped down from his role as president and CEO. The board will begin a formal search for permanent successors.
“The California Blue Shield is extremely fortunate that Mike, an exceptional senior leader, stepped into the role of interim CEO,” said board chair Christina (Chris) Leslie. “Mike has a deep understanding of our operations and is committed to our mission. We are confident that the Board will successfully implement our vision to transform our healthcare system.”
“We would like to thank Lois for his contributions and for his commitment to his employees, providers and members,” added Leslie. “We hope she moves into new opportunities.”
Stuart brings over 22 years of healthcare experience and over 10 years of experience with Blue Shield in California, addressing the biggest challenges of healthcare and helps organizations innovate and create sustainable, affordable healthcare systems. He has been the CFO of Health Plans since October 2022, and previously served as Senior Vice President of Finance.
“I am honored to serve California's Blue Shield in this interim role,” Stuart said. “We look forward to working with the Board and the entire Blue Shield of the California team to implement our vision and implement the long-term change strategies needed to ensure quality healthcare is more affordable and accessible for all Californians.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve California's Blue Shield and be proud of the team's achievements,” Quam said. “Blue Shield in California understands the healthcare challenges faced by everyday Americans and is committed to finding solutions to improve their care system. It is a commitment I share and will move me into the next leadership role.”
About the Blue Shield in California
California Blue Shield strives to create a healthcare system worthy of sustainably affordable family and friends. The Health Plan is an independent member of the Blue Shield Association tax payments, nonprofit organization, with nearly 6 million members, over 7,500 employees and annual revenue of over $25 billion. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and is now headquartered in Oakland, California Blue Shield and its affiliates offer health, dental, visual, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has donated more than $60 million to the California Foundation's Blue Shield over the past three years to impact the California community. For more information about Blue Shield in California, visit news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us LinkedIn or Facebook.
