2015 Diversity Leader

Wellmark-LogoWellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
Headquarters: Des Moines, Iowa
CEO: John Forsyth
Employees: 1,800

Recent Recognition Includes:

  • ESGR, Employer of Choice for Veterans, 2014
  • Black EOE Journal, Top Diversity Employer, 2013 and 2014
  • Professional Woman’s Magazine, Top Diversity Employer, 2013 and 2014
  • com, Champions of Diversity Award (Chairman/CEO John Forsyth), 2013
  • com, Top 50 Multicultural Business Opportunities, 2012
John Forsyth

John Forsyth

Inclusion is an organizational core value—at the heart of who we are and what we do; Inclusion is foundational for us, says John Forsyth, Chair and CEO, Chair of the Inclusion Council.

“Wellmark is nationally recognized as a leader in health insurance, and we know our achievements are the result of the diverse talents, skills, and contributions of our employees. We know that trust is earned, one member at time. And we believe we succeed because we have a culture that fosters inclusion, respect, and an ongoing commitment to our community.

“Inclusion permeates everything at Wellmark—it’s an organizational core value, and at the heart of who we are and what we do. Inclusion is foundational for us. Our Chairman and CEO is also the Chair of our Inclusion Council. He invests in resources dedicated to educating our workforce, enhancing our workplace, and being involved in our community. Here are some of the tools we use to develop our workforce and enhance our culture:

  • Required diversity and inclusion training
  • Seven diversity- and inclusion-focused courses
  • Mandatory ethics and conduct training
  • An intranet site that features employee spotlights, a calendar noting multicultural dates of observance, and community events
  • October is dedicated to raising diversity awareness through education, activities, speakers, and lunch and learns
  • A dedicated Inclusion webpage, containing educational materials, articles, and presentations
  • National cultural awareness months are spotlighted, featuring employees, cultural café specials, and local activities and events

“We don’t view our journey as presenting challenges, but rather, opportunities, and we focus on appreciating the individual differences that each of us brings to work every day.”