Deanna Houston
Bentonville,AR
Summary
Results-driven healthcare and business development leader with extensive experience in payer strategy, specialty pharmacy, and client relationship management. Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives, improve operational performance, and drive client satisfaction. Strong background in data analysis, contract compliance, and team leadership. Known for delivering strategic solutions that enhance efficiency, strengthen partnerships, and produce measurable outcomes.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager, Business Development – Payer Strategy
Walmart
12.2022 - Current
- Lead cross-functional initiatives to execute payer strategies and improve operational performance
- Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure consistency, compliance, and efficiency
- Analyze payer performance data and contractual requirements to drive informed decision-making
- Serve as primary client liaison, maintaining strong relationships and ensuring high satisfaction
- Deliver client-facing presentations and performance reports to key stakeholders
- Identify and implement strategic improvements to enhance payer operations and outcomes
- Manage priorities and timelines to align with business objectives
- Coach and develop team members to support performance and growth
Senior Account Solutions Manager
Walgreens Co.
02.2015 - 12.2022
- Manage key Health Plan and PBM accounts as primary contact for specialty pharmacy services
- Drive client satisfaction by optimizing operational quality and service delivery
- Resolve complex client and vendor issues while maintaining high service standards
- Oversee implementation of benefit plan changes and group structure updates
- Analyze and present utilization and performance data to support client decision-making
- Support marketing initiatives and maintain client-facing materials
- Lead rollout and implementation of new products for existing clients
Group Supervisor
AllianceRx Walgreens Prime Specialty Pharmacy
06.2012 - 02.2015
- Supervised daily operations, staffing, and workflow management
- Conducted performance evaluations and coached team members on development goals
- Monitored productivity metrics and reported performance trends
- Supported SOP development and process improvements
- Participated in hiring, training, and onboarding staff
Pharmacy Financial Coordinator
University of Michigan Transplant Specialty Pharmacy
03.2011 - 05.2012
- Managed patient enrollment and financial coordination for transplant pharmacy programs
- Provided financial counseling on medication costs and insurance coverage
- Secured prior authorizations and conducted benefit analysis
- Educated patients on insurance options and enrollment processes
- Collaborated with clinical teams to communicate financial information effectively
Clinical Data Analyst / Manufacturing Reporting
OptionCare (Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy)
09.2008 - 03.2011
- Analyzed pharmaceutical costs, utilization trends, and clinical outcomes
- Ensured data accuracy and compliance through validation processes
- Managed analytics projects from design through reporting
- Communicated data standards and insights to stakeholders
Customer Care Coordinator / Intake Team Leader
OptionCare Specialty Pharmacy
01.2004 - 09.2008
- Supported account management and client relationship activities
- Acted as liaison to resolve client concerns and improve service delivery
- Trained and mentored team members
- Assisted in onboarding and development of new staff
Education
Bachelor of Science - Health Administration (BSHA)
University of Phoenix
Skills
- Payer Strategy & Business Development
- Client Relationship Management
- Operational Improvement & Process Optimization
- Data Analysis & Performance Reporting
- Contract Compliance & Regulatory Adherence
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- Team Development & Coaching
Timeline
Manager, Business Development – Payer Strategy
Walmart
12.2022 - Current
Senior Account Solutions Manager
Walgreens Co.
02.2015 - 12.2022
Group Supervisor
AllianceRx Walgreens Prime Specialty Pharmacy
06.2012 - 02.2015
Pharmacy Financial Coordinator
University of Michigan Transplant Specialty Pharmacy
03.2011 - 05.2012
Clinical Data Analyst / Manufacturing Reporting
OptionCare (Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy)
09.2008 - 03.2011
Customer Care Coordinator / Intake Team Leader
OptionCare Specialty Pharmacy
01.2004 - 09.2008
Bachelor of Science - Health Administration (BSHA)
University of Phoenix