Her Story
About Heather
Heather Schlegel is a Strategic Account Executive in healthcare and pharmacy benefits, bringing more than three decades of experience across health and welfare benefits, client service, account management, and healthcare-related operations. In her current role, she supports third-party administrator clients with contracting, pricing, pharmaceutical-related challenges, and evolving legislative and marketplace considerations. Her earlier career included significant experience in benefits administration, HRIS, service delivery, client management, and human capital management, giving her a broad understanding of the operational and relationship-driven aspects of the healthcare benefits industry.
Throughout her career, Heather has distinguished herself as a connector, relationship builder, and strategic client advocate. One of her most rewarding accomplishments was building a new department from the ground up as a director-manager at a Minneapolis-based TPA payer. She credits strong leaders and mentors with helping shape her approach to leadership and professional development, while her ability to cultivate lasting relationships has continued to create opportunities throughout her career. Her expertise encompasses strategic account management, healthcare and welfare benefits, contracting, pricing, client retention, project management, vendor coordination, and cross-functional collaboration.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Heather is deeply committed to community engagement and mentorship. She serves as a volunteer ambassador for the Women's Health Leadership TRUST and has participated in initiatives supporting children's hospitals and community organizations. She has also volunteered with Make-A-Wish Minnesota for many years, motivated in part by her family's connection to the organization, and previously served as a Co-Director of the Food Allergy Support Group of Minnesota. Through her professional leadership, volunteer service, and commitment to meaningful relationships, Heather exemplifies a career built around connecting people, creating opportunities, and making a positive impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Heather
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the handful of exceptional leaders and mentors who have influenced me throughout my career. Their actions and example gave me a strong model of leadership and helped shape the professional I have become. I also credit my family's support and my ability to build and maintain meaningful mentoring relationships. Those relationships have allowed me to reconnect with people years later and discover new opportunities throughout my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Focusing on the present and doing one's best each day, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on immediate tasks rather than getting overwhelmed by future uncertainties
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to remember their “why.” Focus on what is directly in front of you each day rather than becoming overwhelmed by the bigger picture. Do your best with the responsibilities in front of you and recognize that not every day will be perfect. You do not have to love your job every single day to build a meaningful and successful career.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Legislation changes.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The information provided does not contain a direct response to this question. However, her professional experience and stated priorities demonstrate a strong emphasis on relationship building, service, collaboration, leadership, mentorship, family support, community involvement, and helping others succeed.
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