Priority Health, a nationally recognized nonprofit health plan, which acquired Physicians Health Plan of Northern Indiana last month, announced Gary Shearer, president & CEO of PHP, has decided to retire. Ross Hensley, chief sales officer for PHP, will assume expanded market leader responsibilities.

Shearer has been at the helm of PHP since May 2019, leading the company through growth and transformation. He was also instrumental in the recent completion of Priority Health’s acquisition of PHP on December 1, 2024. Shearer said he is looking forward to spending more time with his family and pursuing his hobbies. His last day with PHP will be January 31, 2025.

Rick Abbott, senior vice president of Employer Solutions and Innovation at Priority Health, said beginning February 1, Hensley will represent PHP more broadly in the community and through business and industry endeavors, while continuing to lead PHP’s sales team. He said Hensley, who has been with PHP for six years, is well positioned to assume market leader responsibilities.

“Ross brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to drive the company forward,” said Abbott. “He is trusted and well respected in the marketplace, and we know he will make a significant impact in his expanded role.”

Praveen Thadani, president of Priority Health, said: “We are very thankful for Gary’s visionary leadership of PHP over the past five years. We wish Gary the very best in his retirement. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of working with him and for him.”