The Cigna Group announced that David M. Cordani will retire as chief executive officer effective July 1, 2026, and will become executive chair of the company’s Board of Directors. The Bloomfield-based health company said Brian Evanko, currently president and chief operating officer, will succeed Cordani as CEO and has been elected to the Board.
Evanko has held senior leadership roles across Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth Health Services, overseeing a broad business portfolio and initiatives focused on data, technology, and artificial intelligence.
The leadership change comes as national healthcare organizations face continued pressure to improve affordability and access. The Cigna Group serves millions of customer relationships globally and maintains a significant presence in Connecticut’s healthcare and insurance sector. Cordani and Evanko will work together through the transition period ending July 1, 2026, when Evanko formally assumes the chief executive role and Cordani becomes Executive Chair of the Board.
"Brian is an exceptional leader and the right person to guide The Cigna Group into its next chapter," said Cordani. "The status quo in health care today is unsustainable. By leading from the front and making meaningful changes, we have delivered sustained impact for customers and strengthened the company strategically, operationally, and financially. Now is the right time to transition leadership to build on our progress and carry our momentum forward."
"David and Brian have worked together for many years, and under their leadership, The Cigna Group is defining a new era in health care, centered on delivering more personalized and affordable care," said Eric Wiseman, lead independent director of the Board of Directors. "Brian's purpose-driven, performance-focused leadership, experience across every dimension of our business, and future-focused approach uniquely position him to be the company's next CEO."
"As I assume this role, I am grateful to David for his mentorship and to our Board of Directors for their trust," Evanko said. "Over my nearly 30 years with the company, I have seen firsthand the strength of our businesses, the talent of our team, and our deep commitment to serving customers and clients. I am excited to build on our strong foundation as we work to further modernize health care, expand our reach, and fuel growth."
Wiseman continued, "On behalf of the Board, I want to express our gratitude for David's vision and leadership over nearly 17 years as CEO. We are pleased that The Cigna Group will continue to benefit from David's insights and experience as Executive Chair."
Cordani concluded, "Leading The Cigna Group has been the privilege of a lifetime. I am especially proud of how our team has worked to build a stronger future—not just for today, but for the next generation. By focusing on the customer, delivering value, and driving positive change, we are making a difference, one person at a time."
