Harvard Pilgrim Health Care CEO resigns citing behavior 'inconsistent' with company values

Wellesley, Mass.-based Harvard Pilgrim Health Care President and CEO Eric H. Schultz resigned, effective immediately.

In a letter to Harvard Pilgrim's board of directors and employees, Mr. Schultz wrote that he "recently exhibited behavior that was inconsistent with my personal core values and the company's core values and code of conduct."

Mr. Schultz did not detail the behavior that led to his decision to depart; however, he noted, "…as your leader, I was committed to fostering a workplace culture that was inclusive, welcoming and rooted in integrity and respect. I made mistakes, and I'm truly sorry."

Mr. Schultz led the insurer for eight years. In the letter, he wrote he was proud of several accomplishments, including the company's expansion into Connecticut as well as creating benefits for the transgender community.

The company's board accepted Mr. Schultz's resignation. It named Michael Carson president. Mr. Carson will oversee daily operations and execution of the insurer's strategic business plan.

Mr. Carson most recently served as Harvard Pilgrim's chief business growth officer. He has worked at the company since 2017. Previously, he was COO at Aliso Viejo, Calif.-based ConcertoHealth, a multistate medical group.

Harvard Pilgrim Health Care offers health benefit plans, programs and services 3 million-plus customers. The payer is negotiating a possible merger with Boston-based Partners HealthCare.

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