Lead Director, State Strategy and Growth

At CVS Health, we’re building a world of health around every consumer and surrounding ourselves with dedicated colleagues who are passionate about transforming health care.

As the nation’s leading health solutions company, we reach millions of Americans through our local presence, digital channels and more than 300,000 purpose-driven colleagues – caring for people where, when and how they choose in a way that is uniquely more connected, more convenient and more compassionate. And we do it all with heart, each and every day.

Position Summary

This role will report to the Executive Director of Medicaid Business Development.  This role is central to advancing our Medicaid business objectives by developing and executing state-specific strategies that align with healthcare policy and individual Medicaid priorities.

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in Medicaid policy, exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, and a growth-oriented mindset to drive innovation and expansion across state markets. This role will directly influence Medicaid market growth, policy alignment, and stakeholder engagement. This role will require a rigorous travel schedule to effectively engage with state stakeholders, attend conferences, and support business development activities across multiple market. The Lead Director will be instrumental in positioning the organization as a leader in Medicaid innovation and expanding our footprint across state programs.

• Develop and implement strategic plans tailored to individual state Medicaid priorities and healthcare policy landscapes.

• Translate high-level strategies into actionable workplans and lead cross-functional execution.

• Prepare policy briefs, blog posts, presentations, and other materials to communicate complex policy issues.

• Serve as a liaison to CVS government affairs teams, representing Medicaid interests and ensuring alignment.

• Represent the organization at conferences, meetings, and networking events to promote Medicaid initiatives.

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including community organizations, providers, associations, and advocacy professionals.

• Monitor and analyze policy and legislative trends to inform strategy and identify opportunities.

• Provide strategic support to overcome barriers and craft innovative solutions.

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities through professional networks and partnerships.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of experience in Medicaid policy, healthcare strategy, or managed care leadership.

• Proven track record in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and policy advocacy.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Experience navigating Medicaid procurements and state healthcare contracts is a plus.

• Flexibility and willingness to travel as required, including up to 50% travel for stakeholder engagement and business development activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MPH, MPA, MBA).

• Background in government relations or legislative affairs.

• Familiarity with value-based care, LTSS, and dual-eligible programs.

• Established professional network in Medicaid and healthcare policy.

Education

Bachelor's degree in public policy, health administration, business, or related field or equivalent experience/education.

Pay Range

The typical pay range for this role is:

$100,000.00 - $231,540.00

This pay range represents the base hourly rate or base annual full-time salary for all positions in the job grade within which this position falls.  The actual base salary offer will depend on a variety of factors including experience, education, geography and other relevant factors.  This position is eligible for a CVS Health bonus, commission or short-term incentive program in addition to the base pay range listed above.  This position also includes an award target in the company’s equity award program. 
 

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Great benefits for great people

We take pride in our comprehensive and competitive mix of pay and benefits – investing in the physical, emotional and financial wellness of our colleagues and their families to help them be the healthiest they can be. In addition to our competitive wages, our great bene