Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Names New Divisional Senior Vice President

CHICAGO (May 13, 2008) – Dieter A. Freer has been named divisional senior vice president, Local and Consumer Markets, for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL).  In his new role, Freer will oversee small, mid-market, and hospital group sales and renewals in markets throughout Illinois, as well as manage HMO Illinois.  Freer also will manage technology-based and other sales and account management tools for BCBSIL's independent brokers, and oversee training of the company's sales force.  In addition, Freer will lead BCBSIL's individual market sales, and oversee BCBSIL's extensive Service in the Neighborhood program, which provides consumers unbiased information about health insurance options and issues via seminars and workshops for community organizations throughout the state.

"With his vast sales, marketing, and management experience, Dieter will ensure that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois continues to provide reliable products, services, and tools to employer groups and brokers," Paul S. Boulis, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois president.

Freer has 23 years of experience in sales, sales management, health care financing, and health plan management.  Most recently, he served as president and general manager of CIGNA Healthcare's Georgia/Alabama division.  Prior to CIGNA, Freer worked for other Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans, serving as director of Sales for Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey and sales manager for Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Freer received his bachelor of science degree in Biology from the State University of New York at New Paltz.  In addition, Freer is a certified health consultant.

With more than 7 million members, BCBSIL (www.bcbsil.com) is the largest health insurance company in Illinois.  Started in 1936, BCBSIL is committed to promoting the health and wellness of its members and its communities through accessible, cost-effective, quality health care.  BCBSIL is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC), a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.  HCSC is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Back to the Newsroom