BRIDGETTE STEWART
Lynwood,IL
Summary
Strategic and results-driven employee benefits professional with 20+ years of experience managing complex client portfolios, negotiating carrier contracts, and leading renewal strategy for fully insured and self-funded plans. Recognized for deep regulatory expertise (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA), advanced claims analysis, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable client solutions. Trusted advisor to executive leadership teams with a consistent record of client retention, cost containment, and service excellence.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Account Executive
VISTANATIONAL INSURANCE GROUP (Acquired by Brown & Brown)
Oak Brook, IL
01.2016 - 01.2026
- Served as senior-level strategic advisor managing a complex book of business across diverse funding arrangements and advanced contract structures.
- Served as primary liaison between clients and insurance carriers, ensuring seamless communication and issue resolution
- Led renewal strategy, negotiate carrier terms, and present comprehensive financial and utilization analyses
- Analyzed claims data and utilization trends to drive cost-containment strategies and plan design improvements
- Conducted renewal and quarterly business review meetings with executive stakeholders
- Developed and executed open enrollment strategies including employee education sessions (on-site and virtual)
- Prepared enrollment guides, employee communications, and renewal change summaries
- Ensured full regulatory compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and related mandates
- Oversaw installation of new group insurance contracts and manage implementation timelines
- Maintained high client retention through proactive service and consultative partnership
- Managed a book of business of over $1.5 million in revenue
- Led strategic client engagements, enhancing customer satisfaction and retention rates.
- Streamlined account management processes, improving operational efficiency and service delivery.
Account Manager
USI Midwest, Inc.
Chicago, IL
10.2015 - 12.2015
- Managed local and national client portfolio including primarily fully insured and select self-funded accounts
- Served as primary contact for clients, producers, and carriers
- Educated clients on compliance requirements including ERISA, COBRA, and Healthcare Reform
- Led employee benefit meetings and supported contract implementation
- Coordinated timelines, deliverables, and renewal documentation
Account Manager
Benefitdecisions, Inc.
Chicago, IL
01.2003 - 01.2015
- Managed assigned book of business within the 2–300 employee market segment.
- Led renewal strategy meetings and full RFP marketing processes
- Developed carrier comparisons and strategic recommendations to leadership teams
- Coordinated vendor negotiations and managed implementation transitions
- Oversaw billing, claims, eligibility, and enrollment issue resolution
- Reviewed service agreements, SPDs, SBCs, contracts, and benefit materials
- Facilitated quarterly service review meetings
- Trained and mentored new team members
Medicaid Sales Representative
Humana, Inc.
Chicago, IL
01.2003 - 01.2003
- Delivered enrollment presentations using approved marketing strategies
- Developed relationships with community organizations to expand program participation
- Responded to member inquiries and enrollment support needs
Senior Sales Support Specialist
Aetna, Inc.
Chicago
01.1996 - 01.2002
- Subject matter expert for RFP preparation and complex questionnaire responses
- Trained staff on RFP systems and sales support platforms
- Participated in strategic planning calls for high-profile accounts
- Served as Team Lead and performance mentor
Benefits Consultant
Aetna, Inc.
Chicago
01.1996 - 01.1997
- Drafted group contracts, legal documentation, and benefit communications
- Managed enrollment data and regional HMO contract preparation
- Supported health fairs and employee enrollment meetings
Administrative Assistant
Aetna, Inc.
Chicago
01.1993 - 01.1996
- Provided executive administrative support to CFO and financial leadership
- Managed accounts payable and departmental HR records
- Coordinated travel, meetings, and operational logistics
Education
Healthcare Management
Roosevelt University
Chicago, ILSkills
- Microsoft Excel Word PowerPoint Microsoft Office Suite
- Zywave Brokerage Builder Employee Navigator
Certification
Illinois Life & Health Producer License #7903198
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Employee Benefits Strategy & Consulting
- Fully Insured & Self-Funded Plans
- Renewal Negotiation & Carrier Management
- Claims & Utilization Analysis
- Open Enrollment Strategy & Communication
- Regulatory Compliance (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA)
- RFP Development & Marketing
- Client Retention & Relationship Management
- Plan Implementation & Contract Installation
Timeline
Senior Account Executive
VISTANATIONAL INSURANCE GROUP (Acquired by Brown & Brown)
01.2016 - 01.2026
Account Manager
USI Midwest, Inc.
10.2015 - 12.2015
Account Manager
Benefitdecisions, Inc.
01.2003 - 01.2015
Medicaid Sales Representative
Humana, Inc.
01.2003 - 01.2003
Senior Sales Support Specialist
Aetna, Inc.
01.1996 - 01.2002
Benefits Consultant
Aetna, Inc.
01.1996 - 01.1997
Administrative Assistant
Aetna, Inc.
01.1993 - 01.1996
Healthcare Management
Roosevelt University