Kim L. Bradley Chosen for the Leadership Maryland Executive Program’s Class of 2024

CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Vice President of Total Rewards and Baltimore County resident one of 52 selected for statewide professional development program

Easton, MD – Leadership Maryland recently announced that Kim L. Bradley, Vice President of Total Rewards at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), has been chosen to participate in their statewide professional development program as a member of the Class of 2024.  

Bradley is one of 52 individuals chosen for the Leadership Maryland Executive Program’s 31st class, who will complete the eight-month, hands-on learning program focused on the state’s most vital issues. The program will run from April to December, and include five, two-day sessions focused on Maryland’s five main geographic regions and the most vital issues impacting economic development, education, health and human services, criminal justice, the environment, and multi-culturalism/diversity across the state. More than 100 experts representing Maryland’s business, government, education, and non-profit communities will serve as panelists and guest speakers. 

“We are excited to announce our next class and welcome these accomplished and motivated individuals to the Executive Program,” said David Fike ’16 (LM) President and CEO, Leadership Maryland. “This year’s class selection process was competitive, and after careful review of over 100 applications, I am thrilled to share that the 52 members of the Class of 2024 represent a powerful cross-section of leaders who have the desire to make a broader impact within our state. The knowledge, experience, and connections they will gain in our program will prepare them to do just that.”  

Bradley has demonstrated extraordinary leadership abilities, which have accelerated her professional advancement in her career and at CareFirst. She's been instrumental in modernizing CareFirst's compensation structure, ensuring competitive market positioning and equitable employee compensation. Her innovative approach has reduced attrition rates and elevated employee engagement levels. Bradley also continually advocates for employee well-being, and has advanced initiatives such as adoption benefits, caregiver leave, mental health support and wellness programs. 

“Kim possesses a wealth of experience, has an innate ability to drive positive change and is fueled with a passion for human connection," said Angela Celestin, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of CareFirst. “I am thrilled that she has been selected for this incredible opportunity, and I strongly believe in her ability to bring the same level of commitment, devotion and enthusiasm to the leadership program.” 

In close alignment with CareFirst’s mission of promoting equitable and affordable care to all, Bradley is deeply engaged in her community, leading United Way events and championing causes like the CareFirst’ involvement in the American Heart Walk and CareFirst’s 'Billion Steps Challenge,' encouraging employees to walk and run for heart health.  

Leadership Maryland’s flagship Executive Program is open to senior-level executives with significant achievements in either their careers and/or their communities. Ideal Leadership Maryland members have a desire to learn more about Maryland’s most critical issues and a personal commitment to be a force for positive change in their organizations, their communities, and their state. For more information about Leadership Maryland, please visit leadershipmd.org, call 410-841-2101 or email info@leadershipmd.org. 

About Leadership Maryland 

Leadership Maryland is a statewide nonprofit offering professional development programs dedicated to building a better Maryland by harnessing the strength of its business and community leaders. Established in 1992, Leadership Maryland’s Executive Program selects as many as 52 diverse and accomplished senior-level leaders from Maryland’s public and private sectors each year to come together as a class for an eight-month learning program focused on the state’s most vital social, economic and environmental issues. And new in 2024, Leadership Maryland’s Emerging Leader Program brings together a class of 30 of the state’s rising stars and gives them the skills and tools they need to advance in their careers. With an alumni network comprised of leaders from all industries and regions of the state, Leadership Maryland has established thousands of Marylanders on their career leadership path, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to influence positive change. To learn more, please visit leadershipmd.org.

About CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield   

In its 86th year of service, CareFirst, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is a not-for-profit healthcare company which, through its affiliates and subsidiaries, offers a comprehensive portfolio of health insurance products and administrative services to 3.5 million individuals and employers in Maryland, the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia. In 2022, CareFirst invested $24.1 million to improve overall health, and increase the accessibility, affordability, safety and quality of healthcare throughout its market areas. To learn more about CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, http://www.carefirst.com/.