Culinary Health Fund, Unite Here Health
VP, Network Strategy and Market Development
Culinary Health Fund, Unite Here Health, Las Vegas, Nevada, us, 89105
Vice President of Network Strategy and Market Development – UNITE HERE HEALTH
Location : Remote role with a strong preference for candidates in Central or Eastern America.
About the Organization UNITE HERE HEALTH (UHH) is a multi-employer Taft‑Hartley Trust Fund governed by a Board of Trustees composed of union and employer representatives.
Mission UHH’s mission is to provide health benefits that offer high‑quality, affordable healthcare to their participants at better value with better service than is otherwise available in the market. UHH believes their success depends on innovation and engaging their participants.
Since 1974, UNITE HERE HEALTH has served UNITE HERE! union workers in the hospitality, food service and gaming industries. Their benefits and innovative programs are designed to meet the triple aim of better care, better health, and lower costs while empowering participants to better manage their health and healthcare.
For more information about the organization, please visit: https://www.uhh.org
Culture UHH is a very hands‑on, fast‑paced, flat organization that prides itself in being innovative and progressive. Ensuring excellence in participant care is the highest priority.
About the Position The Vice President of Network Strategy & Market Development is senior executive leader responsible for designing, executing, and optimizing Aurora’s managed care plan and provider network and market management strategy. This role provides strategic and operational leadership to the Fund’s Aurora staff and oversees network contracting, provider partnerships, vendor management, and market development to ensure the organization delivers competitive, high‑quality, cost‑effective care solutions across Aurora’s regions/markets. The position is a key contributor to the overall performance of the Aurora‑based Plan.
This role will provide overall strategic guidance to the Aurora Plan Units, leading the development of a comprehensive network strategy including contracting with managed care plans, direct contracts with hospital systems, provider groups, and ancillary service providers to strengthen our Aurora plan performance on cost and position the organization for increased growth. This position directs the negotiation and management of health plan, provider, and other vendor agreements, cultivates strategic partnerships with health systems, key physician groups, and other strategic market partners, and ensures strong operational performance of contracted vendors/providers. The leader also oversees vendor selection and performance to support network adequacy, access, and service delivery.
Working closely with executive leadership, the VP analyzes market trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes to identify opportunities for expansion and differentiation. The role is accountable for vendor and market performance metrics, total cost of care initiatives as it relates to contracting, and market‑level business results related to our contracts. This position requires strong strategic vision, deep managed care expertise, cross‑functional collaboration, and the ability to influence both internal and external stakeholders.
Key Functions Reporting Up
Vendor Management (MCVA)
Network Contracting Strategy and Execution
Market Development
Essential Qualifications
15+ years of progressive leadership experience in network strategy, vendor management, and market development across complex, multi‑partner environments
Proven ability to develop and execute enterprise‑level network strategies that improve performance, reduce costs, and support long‑term growth
Expertise in building and managing large‑scale vendor ecosystems, including contract negotiation, SLA governance, performance optimization, and risk mitigation. This includes direct negotiation with executive level leadership of hospital systems and health plans
A proven track record and ability to cultivate strategic partnerships with health systems, key physician groups, and other strategic market partners at the executive level
Demonstrated success driving market expansion initiatives, developing new partnerships, and identifying strategic growth opportunities
Strong financial acumen with experience leading multimillion‑dollar budgets, forecasting, cost modeling, and ROI‑driven investment planning
Exceptional leadership skills with a track record of developing high‑performing teams and influencing executives and cross‑functional stakeholders
Highly skilled in data‑driven decision‑making, market and competitive analysis, and applying insights to guide strategic direction
Adept at leading complex transformation programs and navigating organizational change, ambiguity, and high‑impact decision environments
Education, Licenses, and Certifications
Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field from an accredited institution, or significant related experience in lieu of education
Master’s Degree (preferred) in business administration, Healthcare Administration or Public Health or another related field
Short Term Goals (first 90 days)
Assess provider networks, key markets, and major contracts to identify opportunities to improve affordability, quality, access, and performance accountability
Evaluate existing provider and vendor agreements to strengthen financial terms, cost‑management levers, and contractual protections
Conduct market analyses in priority states with significant membership to identify innovative partnership and contracting opportunities
Develop initial market strategies for key states, including network positioning, provider priorities, and growth or optimization pathways
Establish a baseline view of network performance, data capabilities, and reporting gaps to inform future strategy
Identify near‑term “quick wins” and risk mitigation opportunities with measurable financial or operational impact
Build strong relationships with executive leadership and cross‑functional partners while developing a deep understanding of the organization’s operating model and Taft‑Hartley governance
Salary expectations The salary range for this position is $285,000 to $300,000. Actual base salary may vary based upon, but not limited to: relevant experience, qualifications, expertise, certifications, licenses, education or equivalent work experience, time in role, peer and market data, prior performance, business sector, and geographic location.
Benefits UHH rewards great work with great benefits, including but not limited to: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time‑Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, Short‑ and Long‑term Disability, Life, AD&D, Flexible Spending Accounts (healthcare & dependent care), Commuter Transit, Tuition Assistance, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Of particular note are excellent retirement benefits through a 401(k) and a robust pension plan.
Additional Job Description Vendor Management The Vice President will oversee a vendor management team (MCVA) to ensure that upon the closure of critical deals with vendors, all onboarding and implementation issues are addressed, and performance is monitored closely to extract full value from vendor partnerships. Under the direction of the Vice President, the MCVA Team will support final negotiations; coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to implement contracts; and manage day‑to‑day contractual relationships with a wide range of managed care partners (contracted network carriers, vendors and preferred providers).
Network Contracting Strategy and Execution The Vice President will oversee the network contracting strategy and execution team and provide expert guidance in the design, negotiation and execution of advanced contracting models and cultivation of key provider partnerships. They will ensure UHH’s contracting strategy is centered around improving affordability, quality and overall network performance. The Vice President will drive innovation in UHH’s contracting strategy, including the exploration of opportunities to increase quality and decrease costs through both standard and novel arrangements with third party administrators, direct contracts with providers, value‑based contracts, carve‑outs, point solutions and other approaches that deliver value.
Market Development The Vice President will provide oversight to the team to build a deep understanding of major UHH markets (Chicago, NYC, Boston, AC, national Food Service Plan) and provide clear guidance on where to invest, intervene or innovate. They will guide the examination of key trends, market dynamics, local legislation and policy activity, and union and employer points of view to anticipate future impacts and translate intelligence into actionable, market‑specific strategies that increase quality, decrease costs and deliver positive member experience.
Network Strategy & Optimization
Oversee the development of the Aurora Plans’ network strategy to ensure operational excellence, scalability, modernization, and long‑term sustainability
Guide the evaluation of current network performance, identification of gaps, and implementation of strategies to improve service quality, efficiency, and cost effectiveness
Work with teams to drive network innovation by assessing emerging technologies, industry trends, and competitive changes affecting strategic direction
Oversee strategic planning cycles, infrastructure roadmaps, and network transformation initiatives
Vendor Management & Oversight
Direct the end‑to‑end vendor management function, including vendor selection, contracting, onboarding, performance management, and strategic alignment
Guide team to negotiate high‑value contracts and partnerships to secure favorable terms, service levels, and financial benefits
Ensure vendor governance frameworks, SLAs, and performance scorecards are in place and managed to drive accountability
Build and maintain long‑term strategic relationships with executive level leadership and key vendors, partners, and service providers
Market Development & Growth
Build out a market development function to identify and evaluate new market opportunities, partnership models, and strategic alliances that support organizational growth and competitive positioning
Guide the team to analyze markets to assess industry landscapes, customer needs, and emerging trends
Oversee the development of new business initiatives, service offerings, or expansion plans that align with organizational goals
Partner with internal and external stakeholders to execute market development strategies that enhance value and drive sustainable growth
Financial & Operational Management
Supervise financial planning, forecasting, cost modeling, and budgeting for network and vendor‑related functions
Ensure efficient utilization of resources and deliver on targets related to cost savings, ROI, and operational improvements
Work closely with Aurora Plan Units VP of Clinical Affairs, VP of Operations and CIO to collaborate and align efforts
Leadership & Team Development
Provide strategic leadership to teams responsible for network planning, optimization, vendor oversight, and market development, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and long‑term growth strategies
Build, lead, and develop high‑performing teams by setting clear expectations, fostering accountability, and cultivating a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Coach and mentor team members and people leaders, providing guidance, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities that strengthen individual capabilities and organizational bench strength
Promote a learning‑oriented environment that encourages innovation, cross‑functional problem‑solving, and adoption of best practices and emerging technologies
Model effective leadership behaviors, including transparency, integrity, strong communication, decisive action, and inclusive engagement across diverse teams
Drive talent development and succession planning, identifying high‑potential employees and preparing future leaders for key roles within the network strategy and vendor management functions
Foster strong cross‑functional relationships with operations, IT, finance, procurement, compliance, and executive leadership to ensure cohesive strategy execution and shared accountability
Champion organizational change, helping teams navigate transformation, new operating models, and evolving priorities with clarity and resilience
Plans, analyzes, and evaluates programs and services, operational needs, and fiscal constraints
Supervises, leads, and delegates work and coaches, mentors, develops employees
Analyzes problems, identifies, and develops alternative solutions, projects consequences of proposed actions, and implements recommendation/solutions
Recommends hires and promotions, directs, and evaluates employment decisions for all assigned positions
Assists with developing and coordinating policies and procedures
Responsible for the oversight of continued employee training requirements, safety, and quality initiatives
Exemplifies the Fund’s BETTER Values and professional effectiveness dimensions in leading and fostering a respectful, trusting, and engaged culture of diversity and inclusion
Performs other duties as assigned within the scope of responsibilities and requirements of the job
Performs Essential Job Functions and Duties with or without reasonable accommodation
Additional Essential Qualifications
Outstanding communication skills, with experience presenting to executive level leadership, boards, regulators, and external partners
Deep understanding of industry technologies, network operations, regulatory requirements, and emerging trends that impact market and vendor strategies
Understanding of current benefits legislation (e.g., Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), Department of Labor (DOL), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), etc.)
Skills and Abilities
Strategic planning with the ability to translate fund priorities into measurable operational and vendor outcomes
Effective communication with boards of trustees, union leaders, employer groups, and external partners
Strong leadership, team development, and cross‑functional collaboration skills
Advanced negotiation, analytical thinking, and data‑driven decision‑making to support cost efficiency, service quality, and fiduciary responsibility, including direct negotiation with executive level leadership of hospital systems and health plans.
Skilled in managing large‑scale programs, process improvements, and transformation initiatives within a regulated environment
Ability to oversee complex vendor ecosystems and ensure alignment with trustee directives, member service needs, and compliance standards
Ability to improve vendor performance, manage escalations, and support trustees in evaluating vendor accountability and value
Ability to identify market or partnership opportunities that enhance fund services, reduce costs, or improve member outcomes
Ability to drive innovation, manage risk, and maintain operational continuity for participants and beneficiaries
Ability to operate effectively amid high ambiguity and influence diverse stakeholders without direct authority
Contact Rosie Saenz, Principal & Executive Search Consultant Morgan Consulting Resources, Inc. rosie@morganconsulting.com
#J-18808-Ljbffr
About the Organization UNITE HERE HEALTH (UHH) is a multi-employer Taft‑Hartley Trust Fund governed by a Board of Trustees composed of union and employer representatives.
Mission UHH’s mission is to provide health benefits that offer high‑quality, affordable healthcare to their participants at better value with better service than is otherwise available in the market. UHH believes their success depends on innovation and engaging their participants.
Since 1974, UNITE HERE HEALTH has served UNITE HERE! union workers in the hospitality, food service and gaming industries. Their benefits and innovative programs are designed to meet the triple aim of better care, better health, and lower costs while empowering participants to better manage their health and healthcare.
For more information about the organization, please visit: https://www.uhh.org
Culture UHH is a very hands‑on, fast‑paced, flat organization that prides itself in being innovative and progressive. Ensuring excellence in participant care is the highest priority.
About the Position The Vice President of Network Strategy & Market Development is senior executive leader responsible for designing, executing, and optimizing Aurora’s managed care plan and provider network and market management strategy. This role provides strategic and operational leadership to the Fund’s Aurora staff and oversees network contracting, provider partnerships, vendor management, and market development to ensure the organization delivers competitive, high‑quality, cost‑effective care solutions across Aurora’s regions/markets. The position is a key contributor to the overall performance of the Aurora‑based Plan.
This role will provide overall strategic guidance to the Aurora Plan Units, leading the development of a comprehensive network strategy including contracting with managed care plans, direct contracts with hospital systems, provider groups, and ancillary service providers to strengthen our Aurora plan performance on cost and position the organization for increased growth. This position directs the negotiation and management of health plan, provider, and other vendor agreements, cultivates strategic partnerships with health systems, key physician groups, and other strategic market partners, and ensures strong operational performance of contracted vendors/providers. The leader also oversees vendor selection and performance to support network adequacy, access, and service delivery.
Working closely with executive leadership, the VP analyzes market trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes to identify opportunities for expansion and differentiation. The role is accountable for vendor and market performance metrics, total cost of care initiatives as it relates to contracting, and market‑level business results related to our contracts. This position requires strong strategic vision, deep managed care expertise, cross‑functional collaboration, and the ability to influence both internal and external stakeholders.
Key Functions Reporting Up
Vendor Management (MCVA)
Network Contracting Strategy and Execution
Market Development
Essential Qualifications
15+ years of progressive leadership experience in network strategy, vendor management, and market development across complex, multi‑partner environments
Proven ability to develop and execute enterprise‑level network strategies that improve performance, reduce costs, and support long‑term growth
Expertise in building and managing large‑scale vendor ecosystems, including contract negotiation, SLA governance, performance optimization, and risk mitigation. This includes direct negotiation with executive level leadership of hospital systems and health plans
A proven track record and ability to cultivate strategic partnerships with health systems, key physician groups, and other strategic market partners at the executive level
Demonstrated success driving market expansion initiatives, developing new partnerships, and identifying strategic growth opportunities
Strong financial acumen with experience leading multimillion‑dollar budgets, forecasting, cost modeling, and ROI‑driven investment planning
Exceptional leadership skills with a track record of developing high‑performing teams and influencing executives and cross‑functional stakeholders
Highly skilled in data‑driven decision‑making, market and competitive analysis, and applying insights to guide strategic direction
Adept at leading complex transformation programs and navigating organizational change, ambiguity, and high‑impact decision environments
Education, Licenses, and Certifications
Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field from an accredited institution, or significant related experience in lieu of education
Master’s Degree (preferred) in business administration, Healthcare Administration or Public Health or another related field
Short Term Goals (first 90 days)
Assess provider networks, key markets, and major contracts to identify opportunities to improve affordability, quality, access, and performance accountability
Evaluate existing provider and vendor agreements to strengthen financial terms, cost‑management levers, and contractual protections
Conduct market analyses in priority states with significant membership to identify innovative partnership and contracting opportunities
Develop initial market strategies for key states, including network positioning, provider priorities, and growth or optimization pathways
Establish a baseline view of network performance, data capabilities, and reporting gaps to inform future strategy
Identify near‑term “quick wins” and risk mitigation opportunities with measurable financial or operational impact
Build strong relationships with executive leadership and cross‑functional partners while developing a deep understanding of the organization’s operating model and Taft‑Hartley governance
Salary expectations The salary range for this position is $285,000 to $300,000. Actual base salary may vary based upon, but not limited to: relevant experience, qualifications, expertise, certifications, licenses, education or equivalent work experience, time in role, peer and market data, prior performance, business sector, and geographic location.
Benefits UHH rewards great work with great benefits, including but not limited to: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time‑Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, Short‑ and Long‑term Disability, Life, AD&D, Flexible Spending Accounts (healthcare & dependent care), Commuter Transit, Tuition Assistance, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Of particular note are excellent retirement benefits through a 401(k) and a robust pension plan.
Additional Job Description Vendor Management The Vice President will oversee a vendor management team (MCVA) to ensure that upon the closure of critical deals with vendors, all onboarding and implementation issues are addressed, and performance is monitored closely to extract full value from vendor partnerships. Under the direction of the Vice President, the MCVA Team will support final negotiations; coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to implement contracts; and manage day‑to‑day contractual relationships with a wide range of managed care partners (contracted network carriers, vendors and preferred providers).
Network Contracting Strategy and Execution The Vice President will oversee the network contracting strategy and execution team and provide expert guidance in the design, negotiation and execution of advanced contracting models and cultivation of key provider partnerships. They will ensure UHH’s contracting strategy is centered around improving affordability, quality and overall network performance. The Vice President will drive innovation in UHH’s contracting strategy, including the exploration of opportunities to increase quality and decrease costs through both standard and novel arrangements with third party administrators, direct contracts with providers, value‑based contracts, carve‑outs, point solutions and other approaches that deliver value.
Market Development The Vice President will provide oversight to the team to build a deep understanding of major UHH markets (Chicago, NYC, Boston, AC, national Food Service Plan) and provide clear guidance on where to invest, intervene or innovate. They will guide the examination of key trends, market dynamics, local legislation and policy activity, and union and employer points of view to anticipate future impacts and translate intelligence into actionable, market‑specific strategies that increase quality, decrease costs and deliver positive member experience.
Network Strategy & Optimization
Oversee the development of the Aurora Plans’ network strategy to ensure operational excellence, scalability, modernization, and long‑term sustainability
Guide the evaluation of current network performance, identification of gaps, and implementation of strategies to improve service quality, efficiency, and cost effectiveness
Work with teams to drive network innovation by assessing emerging technologies, industry trends, and competitive changes affecting strategic direction
Oversee strategic planning cycles, infrastructure roadmaps, and network transformation initiatives
Vendor Management & Oversight
Direct the end‑to‑end vendor management function, including vendor selection, contracting, onboarding, performance management, and strategic alignment
Guide team to negotiate high‑value contracts and partnerships to secure favorable terms, service levels, and financial benefits
Ensure vendor governance frameworks, SLAs, and performance scorecards are in place and managed to drive accountability
Build and maintain long‑term strategic relationships with executive level leadership and key vendors, partners, and service providers
Market Development & Growth
Build out a market development function to identify and evaluate new market opportunities, partnership models, and strategic alliances that support organizational growth and competitive positioning
Guide the team to analyze markets to assess industry landscapes, customer needs, and emerging trends
Oversee the development of new business initiatives, service offerings, or expansion plans that align with organizational goals
Partner with internal and external stakeholders to execute market development strategies that enhance value and drive sustainable growth
Financial & Operational Management
Supervise financial planning, forecasting, cost modeling, and budgeting for network and vendor‑related functions
Ensure efficient utilization of resources and deliver on targets related to cost savings, ROI, and operational improvements
Work closely with Aurora Plan Units VP of Clinical Affairs, VP of Operations and CIO to collaborate and align efforts
Leadership & Team Development
Provide strategic leadership to teams responsible for network planning, optimization, vendor oversight, and market development, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and long‑term growth strategies
Build, lead, and develop high‑performing teams by setting clear expectations, fostering accountability, and cultivating a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Coach and mentor team members and people leaders, providing guidance, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities that strengthen individual capabilities and organizational bench strength
Promote a learning‑oriented environment that encourages innovation, cross‑functional problem‑solving, and adoption of best practices and emerging technologies
Model effective leadership behaviors, including transparency, integrity, strong communication, decisive action, and inclusive engagement across diverse teams
Drive talent development and succession planning, identifying high‑potential employees and preparing future leaders for key roles within the network strategy and vendor management functions
Foster strong cross‑functional relationships with operations, IT, finance, procurement, compliance, and executive leadership to ensure cohesive strategy execution and shared accountability
Champion organizational change, helping teams navigate transformation, new operating models, and evolving priorities with clarity and resilience
Plans, analyzes, and evaluates programs and services, operational needs, and fiscal constraints
Supervises, leads, and delegates work and coaches, mentors, develops employees
Analyzes problems, identifies, and develops alternative solutions, projects consequences of proposed actions, and implements recommendation/solutions
Recommends hires and promotions, directs, and evaluates employment decisions for all assigned positions
Assists with developing and coordinating policies and procedures
Responsible for the oversight of continued employee training requirements, safety, and quality initiatives
Exemplifies the Fund’s BETTER Values and professional effectiveness dimensions in leading and fostering a respectful, trusting, and engaged culture of diversity and inclusion
Performs other duties as assigned within the scope of responsibilities and requirements of the job
Performs Essential Job Functions and Duties with or without reasonable accommodation
Additional Essential Qualifications
Outstanding communication skills, with experience presenting to executive level leadership, boards, regulators, and external partners
Deep understanding of industry technologies, network operations, regulatory requirements, and emerging trends that impact market and vendor strategies
Understanding of current benefits legislation (e.g., Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), Department of Labor (DOL), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), etc.)
Skills and Abilities
Strategic planning with the ability to translate fund priorities into measurable operational and vendor outcomes
Effective communication with boards of trustees, union leaders, employer groups, and external partners
Strong leadership, team development, and cross‑functional collaboration skills
Advanced negotiation, analytical thinking, and data‑driven decision‑making to support cost efficiency, service quality, and fiduciary responsibility, including direct negotiation with executive level leadership of hospital systems and health plans.
Skilled in managing large‑scale programs, process improvements, and transformation initiatives within a regulated environment
Ability to oversee complex vendor ecosystems and ensure alignment with trustee directives, member service needs, and compliance standards
Ability to improve vendor performance, manage escalations, and support trustees in evaluating vendor accountability and value
Ability to identify market or partnership opportunities that enhance fund services, reduce costs, or improve member outcomes
Ability to drive innovation, manage risk, and maintain operational continuity for participants and beneficiaries
Ability to operate effectively amid high ambiguity and influence diverse stakeholders without direct authority
Contact Rosie Saenz, Principal & Executive Search Consultant Morgan Consulting Resources, Inc. rosie@morganconsulting.com
#J-18808-Ljbffr