May 20, 2025 | Minneapolis, MN — UnitedHealth Group announced the immediate resignation of CEO Andrew Witty, citing personal reasons. The company’s board has appointed former CEO and current Chairman Stephen J. Hemsley as interim CEO to guide the organization through a period marked by financial strain, leadership upheaval, and reputational challenges.
Witty, who took the helm in February 2021 after leading UnitedHealth’s Optum division and previously serving as CEO of GlaxoSmithKline, will remain with the company as a senior adviser during the transition. His departure comes amid a series of setbacks for the healthcare giant, including escalating medical costs, a significant stock decline, and the fallout from the December 2024 murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
In a statement, Hemsley expressed gratitude for Witty’s leadership during challenging times and emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing its current issues. “We are grateful for Andrew’s stewardship of UnitedHealth Group, especially during some of the most challenging times any company has ever faced,” Hemsley said.
Hemsley previously served as UnitedHealth’s CEO from 2006 to 2017, a period during which he oversaw significant growth and diversification of the company’s services. His return is seen as a move to stabilize the organization as it navigates ongoing challenges.
The company also announced the suspension of its 2025 financial outlook, attributing the decision to higher-than-expected medical costs, particularly within its Medicare Advantage segment. This move follows a previous downward revision of earnings projections in April, which had already unsettled investors.
UnitedHealth’s stock has experienced significant volatility in recent months, with a notable decline following the leadership change and financial outlook suspension. The company’s shares have dropped over 35% since early 2025, reflecting investor concerns about the organization’s direction and stability.
The December 2024 assassination of Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, added to the company’s turmoil. The incident, which occurred outside a New York City hotel, led to increased scrutiny of UnitedHealth’s practices and further impacted its public image.
As UnitedHealth Group works to regain its footing, Hemsley’s leadership is expected to focus on restoring investor confidence, addressing operational challenges, and steering the company back toward its long-term growth objectives. The organization aims to return to growth in 2026, leveraging its extensive healthcare services and insurance offerings to navigate the evolving industry landscape.
