UnitedHealth names new CEO

UnitedHealth Group Inc. appointed Andrew Witty CEO, effective immediately, succeeding David Wichmann.

Witty, who is the president of UnitedHealth and CEO of unit Optum Inc., will rejoin the company's board of directors. From April 2020 until December 2020, he took an unpaid leave of absence to serve as a global envoy for the World Health Organization's COVID-19 efforts.

Wichmann, who has been CEO since September 2017, is retiring from the role, but will continue in a transition period through March.

UnitedHealth also named Dirk McMahon president and COO. He has been serving as CEO of UnitedHealthcare Inc. since June 2019.

Also, the company reiterated its 2021 outlook for adjusted net earnings of $17.75 to $18.25 per share and its commitment to a long-term growth rate of 13% to 16%.