ST. CLAIRSVILLE – The Health Plan of the Upper Ohio Valley formally announced the appointment of James M. Pennington as its new president and chief executive officer effective July 1, 2014. Pennington joins The Health Plan with more than 35 years of experience in the health insurance industry.

Pennington is a West Virginia native and a graduate of West Virginia University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in safety management.

John D. Holloway, M.D., Chairman of The Health Plan, said, “We are excited with the addition of Jim Pennington as president and CEO of The Health Plan. His knowledge and experience of the West Virginia and Ohio marketplace will work well in continuing our efforts to grow in this region. In addition, his experience on a national basis will provide the opportunity for The Health Plan to expand regionally and nationally.”

Pennington’s career in the health insurance industry began at McDonough Caperton Insurance Group. He became president and CEO of its benefit services division, which evolved into Acordia National and ultimately the Wells Fargo TPA. Pennington has extensive experience in the employee benefit and PPO marketplace. Previously, he held the role of president and CEO with USI Administrators, ppoNEXT and HealthSmart. Pennington will be based at The Health Plan’s corporate office in St. Clairsville.

Pennington said, “I am very excited to return to West Virginia and work with our staff and partners from across the region. I strongly believe that The Health Plan has a solid foundation and position within the region to build a quality oriented and growth-focused company. I look forward to working with our providers, clients and partners to create a positive and healthy atmosphere across the region.”

The Health Plan is a not-for-profit organization established in 1979 and provides high-quality, comprehensive and cost-effective health care to residents in Ohio and West Virginia.

The Health Plan offers a complete line of managed-care products and services designed to provide clients with innovative health care benefits at a reasonable cost.