Highmark appoints new Diversity and Inclusion Officer

Highmark Health has named Robert James its new Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer.

James has been with Highmark since 2015 when he was hired as supplier diversity director. In his new position, he will inform and implement Highmark Health’s diversity, equity and inclusion strategy said Larry Kleinman, Highmark Health Chief Human Resources Officer.

“Robert will be utilizing his experience to align diversity, equity and inclusion efforts across the entire Highmark Health enterprise,” Kleinman said. “Robert will be accelerating our existing efforts as well as creating new programs within the enterprise that continue to foster a diverse workforce, with a particular focus on minority talent representation and professional development.

“He will also continue to assist with the ongoing expansion of Highmark Health’s supplier diversity program.”

Before joining Highmark, James served as CEO of a diversity and inclusion consulting firm and in an advisory role with the Office of Minority and Women Inclusion at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

In 2018, James was named one of the Top 30 Champions of Diversity by Diversity Plus Magazine. He is currently a member of Gov. Tom Wolf’s Advisory Council for Diversity, Inclusion and Small Business Opportunities and serves as a member of its executive committee.

James is also a graduate of the inaugural class of the Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business Advanced Leadership Institute Executive Leadership Academy.

“As a leader in health care, we are committed to being a diverse and inclusive organization at its core, to closing the health diversity gap, and to actively investing in people, suppliers and communities of color,” said Kleinman.