Rite Aid’s Elixir adds COO

Rite Aid’s pharmacy benefits subsidiary Elixir has a new face in its c-suite. Lance Neill is joining the company as COO following his most recent role as Centene’s vice president of network development and contracting. 

“Elixir’s opportunities have never been more compelling,” Neill said. "It is clear that regional health plans and mid-market employers are looking for a more surefooted approach to managing pharmacy spend and driving better health outcomes. And it is clear that as part of the Rite Aid enterprise, Elixir offers significant differentiation in target markets. I am excited to join a purpose-driven company, that is committed to helping people achieve whole health for life." 

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Neill brings experience in pharmacy network development and contracting, specialty pharmacy, finance, analytics and operation oversight to Elixir. In addition to his time at Centene — where he oversaw managed care products that represented $32 billion in annual pharmacy spend — Neill has worked in various senior leadership roles at major healthcare companies, including Diplomat Pharmacy and Walmart. 

In his role at Elixir, Neill is charged with leading the company’s core operational functions, including Elixir Insurance. He also will oversee Elixir’s strategy development to position the company for growth. 

“Elixir is a critical component of Rite Aid’s growth strategy, and we are doubling down on our investment to position the company as a market leader. Lance is a seasoned and trusted industry executive who consistently delivers results,” Rite Aid president and CEO Heyward Donigan said. “He is uniquely qualified to drive strategic prioritization and accountability within Elixir, with a laser focus on operational excellence. In the months to come, I will work closely with Lance and the rest of the Elixir executive team to continue our march forward."