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Brian Snell Named Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois President

CHICAGO — Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, a division of Health Care Service Corporation, today named Brian Snell as its incoming president. He will replace Stephen Harris, who will become HCSC’s president of government programs. The changes are effective Jan. 1.

Snell has more than 30 years of experience with the company, serving in roles of increasing scope and responsibilities. He currently serves as divisional senior vice president Illinois group markets, with extensive knowledge of the needs of Illinois consumers, businesses and other stakeholders. In that role, he ensures BCBSIL continues to deliver customer-first operational excellence by anticipating customer needs and offering data-driven solutions.

“Brian has an exceptional track record of growing and retaining BCBSIL’s small, middle, large and national account group business,” said Opella Ernest, M.D., president, HCSC markets. “His skills working as a collaborator will further enhance our reputation in Illinois as a key stakeholder in making the health care system work better for everyone, especially our members.”

As plan president, Snell will be responsible for the overall financial performance, long-term growth strategy and strategic planning for BCBSIL.

”Over the course of my 32 years at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, I’ve had the privilege to work with countless brokers and consultants on behalf of all our customers to help them meet their needs and the needs of their employees,”  Snell said. “As plan president, I’m looking forward to spreading that same message about our value and commitment to a wider audience and working together to help ensure we are helping build healthier communities.” 

Snell holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and an MBA from DePaul University.

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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois is the largest health insurer in Illinois, serving 9 million members and operating in all 102 Illinois counties. BCBSIL is a division of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company and an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Learn more at bcbsil.com and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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Dave Van de Walle



Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, a Division of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association