CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee has promoted Ronald Harris to vice president of diversity and inclusion.
In this role, he will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and counsel for diversity initiatives that include community outreach, supplier diversity, and creating and maintaining a work environment that reflects the dynamic and diverse BlueCross workforce, as well as the communities the company serves. Harris will report directly to the CEO.
Throughout his 30 years of service at BlueCross, Harris has served in various management roles, including most recently corporate diversity director. Harris is co-founder of the nationwide Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Diversity Alliance. In 2015, he was featured in Edge magazine and recognized by the Chattanooga Women’s Leadership Institute as one of the top-five men promoting women in Chattanooga. In January, USA Today featured Harris in a Q&A on attracting diverse talent.
“Not only have our diversity and inclusion efforts under Ron’s leadership helped us build a culture to attract and retain top talent, but they also are increasingly important as we respond to the needs of the changing demographics of our state,” said J.D. Hickey, president and chief executive officer for BlueCross.
About BlueCross®
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee’s mission is to provide peace of mind through better health. Founded in 1945, the Chattanooga-based company is focused on serving more than 3.4 million members in Tennessee and across the country. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Inc. is an independent licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association. For more information, visit the company’s website at bcbst.com.