Today we’d like to introduce you to Andre Greenwood
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Over two decades ago, I made the move to Atlanta, GA after graduating from Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from the esteemed School of Business and Industry.
Upon acceptance into an Executive Leadership Program at Humana Inc., I was confronted with one of the most devastating natural disasters in history: Hurricane Katrina. Within the first 90 days of my post-graduation career, I faced a critical decision: to maintain my regular duties or to join the efforts at the Command Center to aid our members in securing temporary housing in Atlanta. This involved directly assisting members in accessing their medical histories, including vital prescription medications for chronic illnesses. It was during this pivotal moment that I resolved to become the catalyst for positive change the world sorely needed. In August of 2005, I embraced the role of a genuine servant leader.
Following that, I was selected to serve on several advisory boards focusing on Atlanta’s underserved communities, homelessness and substance abuse, and addressing health disparities affecting the most vulnerable. I am an active board member at the Center for Black Women’s Wellness, a family service center committed to improving the health and well-being of underserved Black women and their families. I also serve on the board of Covenant Community, Inc., which ignites healing for those struggling with substance misuse by providing community-based treatment and recovery. Additionally, I serve as Chairman of the Board at the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA. These organizations serve as an impetus for change, and I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute on these boards alongside inspiring leaders who actively create positive transformations in the communities we serve.
I’ve been able to successfully navigate my career in the healthcare industry for over 20 years, where I currently hold the position of Market Lead/Interim CEO at Aetna Better Health of Georgia.
My commitment to leading with compassion and serving others remains at the heart of my achievements.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Throughout my career journey, I’ve encountered numerous challenges at various stages. Initially, I grappled with integrating my service work with non-profits into my professional path within Fortune 500 companies. My focus was on enhancing the well-being of Georgians by addressing issues such as education, housing, nutrition, and employment—a task that initially seemed daunting but ultimately fueled and prepared me for transformative opportunities.
Regardless of where one finds themselves in their journey, obstacles are inevitable. What I’ve consistently valued is remaining authentic to myself and steadfast in my convictions, confident that my future will be filled with success and prosperity.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Currently, I serve as the Market Lead/Interim CEO at Aetna Better Health of Georgia, a multibillion-dollar healthcare enterprise that provides a wide range of services to government-sponsored healthcare programs.
With over 20 years of extensive experience in the healthcare industry, where I navigated the intricacies of both the insurance and provider sectors. I’ve leveraged my vast expertise in Medicaid, Medicare, Provider Operations, and health plan leadership to bolster and advance business models. My mission is to strengthen relationships with providers, communities, and partners.
I most recently held the role of Chief Operating Officer, at Aetna Better Health of Louisiana, previously I also held multiple leadership roles with Centene Corporation, WellStar Health System and Humana.
As a dedicated community leader, I am deeply committed to giving back to underserved neighborhoods in Atlanta. For over 15 years, I’ve served as a board member at The Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA, where I’ve also held the role of Chairman of the Board for the past six years.
The YMCA serves as more than just a recreational facility; it’s a vital resource offering various programs and services to address the complex challenges faced by youth in Southwest Atlanta. Our initiatives, including food pantries, GED programs, and job fairs, aim to foster sustainable positive change and empower our community to thrive.
Most recently, I’m thrilled to announce my recent appointment to the board of the Center for Black Women’s Wellness. As a husband and father, I felt compelled to become a part of this board. The Center for Black Women’s Wellness stands as a leading, grassroots organization dedicated to enhancing the health and prosperity of marginalized Black women and their families. I firmly believe that a healthy community hinges on the well-being of its members.
My confidence and foundational beliefs were nurtured during my undergraduate years at Florida A&M University’s School of Business and Industry, where our motto, “No excuse is acceptable. No amount of effort is adequate until proven effective,” shaped my ethos. Prior to entering the corporate world, I interned at Fortune 500 organizations, furthering my skills and preparing for my career journey. In 2010, I obtained an Executive MBA from Georgia State University J. Mack Robinson College of Business, continuing to expand my knowledge and talents.
I engage actively in volunteering across various civic and cultural groups. My contributions have been acknowledged through awards such as the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 2018 40 under Forty, completion of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2022, and recognition as one of Atlanta Magazine’s 2024 Atlanta 500 Most Powerful Leaders. Beyond my professional pursuits, I find joy in traveling, sports, live music, and cherishing moments with my wife Naima, and our daughters, Ava and Aubree.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The significance of nurturing and upholding professional relationships has been pivotal in my journey toward success. Maintaining integrity at all times is paramount. Leading with integrity lays the groundwork for authentic and meaningful connections, fostering genuine relationships that are both organic and enduring.
For me, integrity means adhering to my core values, conducting myself with honesty and transparency, and consistently delivering on my promises. Integrity serves as the bedrock of trust, which is indispensable in cultivating genuine connections and enduring partnerships with community members, colleagues, and healthcare associates.
The relationships I’ve cultivated have provided avenues for personal and professional growth—mentally, spiritually, and in my career trajectory. Let us not forget that integrity is not merely a characteristic but one of the guiding principles that shapes our path toward success and fulfillment. As we navigate our journeys, let us cherish our relationships, recognizing that none of us can accomplish everything alone.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Andre.Greenwood
- Facebook: Andre Greenwood
