Joy Matias
Joy Matias, M.S. in Financial Mathematics, is an accomplished finance executive with deep expertise in healthcare, banking, and data-driven strategy. She has previously served as the Health Plan Chief Financial Officer at VNS Health, where she managed and provided oversight over the end-to-end P&L for the health plan under the VNS Health Enterprise. In this role, Joy focused on government-funded healthcare programs, including Medicare and Medicaid for New York State, advocating premium rates that adequately support the membership’s health needs, primarily aged, blind, and disabled populations, while telecommuting from her home in Florida. Her career also includes high-impact roles at Citigroup, Centene Corporation, and Aetna Better Health of Illinois, where she drove revenue growth, optimized operations, and led strategic M&A initiatives. Known for bridging the gap between quantitative analysis and executive decision-making, Joy applies actuarial modeling, predictive analytics, and financial mathematics to generate sustainable growth and operational efficiency. She has led financial integrations for multiple health plan acquisitions, reclaimed millions in value-based contracts, and implemented predictive frameworks for forecasting, risk adjustment, and revenue integrity. Her technical expertise spans Python, SQL, SAS, R, and LLM applications, which she integrates into financial frameworks to support decision-making across complex healthcare operations. Beyond her corporate work, Joy and her husband facilitate a financial ministry called Compass at their church, mentoring individuals on debt management, budgeting, and achieving financial freedom. She is currently pursuing an M.S. in Data Science at DePaul University, where she is integrating Python, SQL, and LLM applications into her financial frameworks. She also holds an M.S. in Financial Mathematics from the University of Chicago. Joy is recognized for her collaborative leadership, analytical precision, and commitment to fiscal responsibility in both professional and community-focused endeavors.
• Master of Science in Financial Mathematics
• University of Chicago
• Master of Science in Data Science and Predictive Analytics (in progress)
• Northwestern University (undergraduate)
• Upsilon Pi Epsilon Honor Society
• Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc.
• Sigma Lambda Gamma Education Foundation
• Join the Journey
• Compass Catholic Ministries
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of motivation, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning. I embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and I am always eager to expand my knowledge and skills through both professional experiences and ongoing education. Outside of work, I find balance and inspiration in dancing, spending time outdoors, and reading, which help me stay energized, focused, and creative in everything I do.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always be yourself, never be intimidated by others, and speak your mind. I’ve learned that my perspective and opinion matter, and approaching challenges with authenticity and confidence allows me to contribute meaningfully, build trust, and create impact in every role I take on.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to be resilient and confident in the face of challenges. Learn how to handle difficult situations without folding, lead by example, and cultivate strong listening skills. Demonstrating both strength and empathy not only earns respect but also empowers you to make a meaningful impact in your work and on your team.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is translating the rigor of actuarial modeling and financial mathematics into actionable, sustainable corporate strategy. The ability to bridge complex quantitative analysis with executive decision-making allows organizations to make data-driven choices that drive growth, manage risk effectively, and create long-term value in an increasingly dynamic and regulated healthcare landscape.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, openness, and respect for others. I strive to be goal-driven, continuously learning, and making a meaningful difference every day. Upholding these principles allows me to build strong relationships, approach challenges with integrity, and contribute positively to the teams and communities I am part of.
Locations
Independent Financial Executive
West Melbourne, FL 32904