UnitedHealth's CEO Hemsley to get $1 million annual base pay

UnitedHealth CEO returns with $1 million salary

Robert Besser
18 May 2025, 05:16 GMT+10

UnitedHealth's CEO Hemsley to get $1 million annual base pay

Stephen Hemsley, the 72-year-old former CEO of UnitedHealth Group, is returning to lead the company during a difficult period
He will receive a yearly salary of US$1 million and a one-time stock award worth $60 million
This stock award will be distributed in stages over three years, and he will not receive any other annual stock bonuses during that period

Minnetonka, Minnesota: Stephen Hemsley, the 72-year-old former CEO of UnitedHealth Group, is returning to lead the company during a difficult period. He will receive a yearly salary of US$1 million and a one-time stock award worth $60 million.

This stock award will be distributed in stages over three years, and he will not receive any other annual stock bonuses during that period.

Hemsley led the company for over ten years before stepping down in 2017. He is returning after a series of serious challenges, including a cyberattack, government investigations, rising healthcare costs, and the tragic death of a senior executive. He will also receive executive-level security services.

UnitedHealth announced the sudden resignation of former CEO Andrew Witty on May 13. The company also suspended its yearly forecast due to rising medical expenses, causing its stock to drop nearly 18 percent in one day. So far, no details have been shared about Witty's exit package. In 2024, Witty earned $26.3 million, including a $1.5 million salary and stock-related compensation.

Hemsley, known for building Optum, a significant contributor to UnitedHealth's growth, will remain chairman of the board but will cease receiving compensation as a director. He also won't receive any annual cash bonuses in his new role.

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