Strategic Director, Provider Network Contracting

Wellmark-Blue-Cross-and-Blue-Shiel; Des Moines (IA); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is seeking a Director of Provider Network Contracting in Des Moines. The role leads complex provider negotiations, develops strategy, and partners across Finance, Legal, Network Contracting, and Operations.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in healthcare contracting, strong negotiation and leadership skills, and the ability to travel as needed. The position supports hybrid work with in-office and remote days.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or direct and applicable work experience.
• 7+ years in healthcare with focus on provider contract work and contracting strategies.
• Strong negotiation, influence, and relationship management skills.
• Experience interpreting network analytics, claims data, and trends to understand provider utilization.
• Formal leadership experience with coaching and developing team members.
• Ability to travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct complex provider network contract negotiations, serving as the primary strategist and decision-maker for high-value, complex provider agreements.
• Provide leadership and day-to-day management of financial and human resources, coaching, development, performance and budgeting for staff.
• Develop and drive strategic plans that support network expansion and product growth across markets.
• Leverage analysis of claim trends, network performance metrics, and market intelligence to inform contracting strategies and cost management.
• Partner with key stakeholders to share Wellmark’s provider network contracting strategies for commercial and government programs networks.
• Develop and drive large-scale provider network strategies for payers across markets, including network development, design and performance optimization.
• Represent the department regarding contracts and payment models to external audiences including health systems and physicians.
• Lead interdepartmental projects and drive process improvements using management tools.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Negotiation

Leadership

Contracting strategies

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Travel

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is seeking a Director of Provider Network Contracting in Des Moines. The role leads complex provider negotiations, develops strategy, and partners across Finance, Legal, Network Contracting, and Operations.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in healthcare contracting, strong negotiation and leadership skills, and the ability to travel as needed. The position supports hybrid work with in-office and remote days.