Chicago-based REIT Ventas, Inc. announced that Maurice Smith, president and chief executive officer of Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC), has been appointed as an independent member of its board of directors effective immediately. HCSC is the largest customer-owned health insurer in the United States, covering over 16 million members across its Blue Cross and Blue Shield health plans in five states.
Smith, 49, is a national leader in healthcare, with over 25 years of experience in fiscal, strategic and operations leadership in the health insurance industry. Smith was named CEO of HCSC in 2020, when he was also recognized as one of Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare. He is a member of the Board of the Economic Club of Chicago, World Business Chicago and Roosevelt University and a Trustee of the Civic Federation.
Smith began his career at HCSC in 1993 and has served in a wide variety of roles, including business development, corporate transactions and as president of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois.
“As a leader in healthcare, Maurice brings significant experience and insight to the Ventas Board,” said Debra A. Cafaro, Ventas chairman and chief executive officer. “Maurice also shares our deep commitment to excellence and our values of service and community. His energy and understanding of trends in healthcare delivery, data and payment will enhance our board at an important juncture as we position the company to advance and increase value throughout the COVID-19 recovery for all our stakeholders.”
“The Ventas board is comprised of a dedicated team of independent recognized leaders and I am excited to join their ranks,” said Smith. “I look forward to working with the Board and with management to help Ventas continue its outstanding track record of delivering results with integrity and realizing the opportunities inherent in the company’s role as one of the preeminent global owners and operators of life science, healthcare and senior living real estate.”
