Qualifications
There's a reason everybody and their mother isn't a top-level executive: the magic formula for nabbing one of these positions hasn't been released to the public. Executives aren't really interested in sharing the secrets to their success, because that would mean more competition—and less dough—for them. While we haven't cracked the code for executive-level success, we've got the lowdown on the basic qualifications that you'll need.
For starters, potential HMO executives need a master's degree. There's no mandatory requirement for the major, but a master's in either healthcare administration or business administration would be a good start. To get one of those you'll need an undergraduate degree, preferably with a focus in public health.
Different schools have different health programs, so don't fret if you pick a school that has a major in health policy and management (for example) instead of public health. The important thing is to get an undergraduate degree in something relating to public health or healthcare policy so your transition into getting your MHA or MBA will be a breeze.
After getting your degrees, you'll need at least ten years of progressive management experience. Progressive management is basically when a leader is committed to moving a company forward (that's business-speak for not being comfortable with maintaining the status quo) and working to adapt to the problems of today's world.
In order to become an executive, it's important to show that you have the ability to keep a company afloat and thriving, even during disastrous times. Who wants a captain who doesn't know how to steer the ship?
Alongside the academic and work experience requirements, there are some personal qualities that executives should have. For starters, the healthcare policies in America are constantly changing, so it's important for an HMO executive to be a great strategic planner and problem-solver. If you're constantly stumped when you try to solve the daily paper's crossword puzzle, being an HMO executive will probably make you want to tear your hair out.
You'll also need phenomenal communication skills, since you'll be in charge of keeping your employees happy and will be talking about the company's needs with others. Introverts will probably hate this job, while ambitious, energy-packed types who don't even need a cup of coffee to get going in the morning will likely thrive. You'll need to be able to chase down what you want like a cheetah—quickly, resolutely, and stylishly. Nobody likes a sloppy executive.