Vice President & Head of Payer Strategy

The Company is seeking a VP & Head of Payer Strategy to lead the enterprise payer strategy and national payer relationships for its urgent care and behavioral health service lines. The successful candidate will be responsible for owning strategic relationships with Tier 1 payers, negotiating multi-year rate renewals, and expanding geographic coverage. This role requires a proven track record in building and leveraging executive-level relationships with major payers, as well as direct experience in negotiating multi-million dollar contracts. The VP will also be involved in behavioral health contract expansion, multi-state market entry, and the development of value-based care partnerships. Strong financial and analytical skills are essential, as is the ability to translate payer strategy into revenue growth and margin improvement. Applicants must have a minimum of 10 years' experience in healthcare payer strategy, with at least 5 years in senior leadership roles. A background in multi-site healthcare settings and multi-state contracting, including experience with Medicaid managed care and telehealth reimbursement policies, is required. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of value-based care models, strategic partnership development, and the ability to lead cross-functionally without direct authority. Executive presence, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels are also key qualifications. A degree in business, healthcare administration, or law is preferred, along with additional experience in urgent care, behavioral health, pediatric healthcare, or top-tier healthcare strategy firms.