UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty Steps Down; Stephen Hemsley Returns as CEO

Andrew Witty has stepped down as CEO of UnitedHealth Group, effective immediately, citing personal reasons. He will remain as a senior adviser to the new CEO.1 2 3 4

Stephen Hemsley, who previously served as CEO from 2006 to 2017, has returned to the position and will also continue as chairman of the board.1 2 3 4

The company is experiencing significant financial turbulence, including plunging stock prices and a recent sell-off that erased billions in market value. UnitedHealth Group shares fell by 11% in premarket trading on the news, with larger declines earlier in the year.1 2

UnitedHealth Group has suspended its 2025 financial outlook, citing rising medical costs, increased care activity, and higher-than-expected expenses for new Medicare Advantage members. The company aims to return to growth in 2026.1 3 4

The leadership shake-up comes just months after the public killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, which contributed to ongoing instability at the company.1 2

Executives and board members publicly thanked Witty for his leadership during an especially challenging period for the company.3 4

Sources:

1. https://www.startribune.com/unitedhealth-ceo-shakeup-stephen-hemsley-andrew-witty-suspends-financial-guidance/601350331

2. https://www.axios.com/2025/05/13/unitedhealth-group-ceo-andrew-witty-brian-thompson

3. https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2025/2025-05-13-uhg-announces-leadership-transition.html

4. https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/unitedhealth-group-suspends-2025-outlook-ceo-andrew-witty-steps-down

Sources:

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