Jacksonville, February 5, 2026
Darnell Smith, the North Florida Market President at Florida Blue, has announced his retirement after more than 36 years with the company. Florida Blue has confirmed a succession plan to ensure a smooth transition upon his departure. Smith’s career has seen him actively involved in community engagement and leadership roles within healthcare services in the region, solidifying the company’s commitment to public health and local governance as it looks ahead.
Jacksonville, Florida – Darnell Smith Announces Retirement as Florida Blue’s North Florida Market President
Darnell Smith, the North Florida Market President at Florida Blue, has announced his retirement, effective this summer. Smith has been with the company for over 36 years, leading operations across 36 counties from Palm Coast to Pensacola.
Succession Plan in Place
Florida Blue has confirmed that a succession plan is in place to ensure a smooth transition following Smith’s departure. The company is committed to maintaining continuity and stability in its North Florida operations, reflecting the strength of local leadership and the importance of consistent healthcare services in the region.
Smith’s Career Highlights
Before his tenure as Market President, Smith served as Group Vice President for Florida Blue’s Service Organization and Business Process Management Organization. In 2023, he took on the role of Chief of Staff for Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, demonstrating his commitment to public service and local governance.
Community Engagement
Throughout his career, Smith has been actively involved in various community organizations, including the Sulzbacher Center, Cathedral Arts Project, First Coast YMCA, LIFT JAX, JAX Chamber, JAXUSA Policy Council, and United Way of Northeast Florida. His dedication to community enhancement underscores the deep ties between Florida Blue and the Jacksonville community.
Background on Florida Blue
Florida Blue, headquartered in Jacksonville, is the state’s leading health insurer, serving over 5 million members across all 67 Florida counties. The commitment to public health and wellness makes Florida Blue an integral player in the local economy and a key partner in community development.
Recent Leadership Changes at Florida Blue
In August 2025, GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation appointed Brian D. Pieninck as its new President and CEO, effective October 1. Pieninck, who previously led CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, is set to guide Florida Blue and oversee the strategic direction of all GuideWell subsidiaries, emphasizing continuity and a strengthened focus on the Northern Florida market.
Looking Ahead
As Florida Blue prepares for Smith’s retirement, the company remains focused on its mission to help people and communities achieve better health. Ensuring a smooth transition will be crucial to the ongoing stability and success of the North Florida operations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Darnell Smith?
Darnell Smith is the North Florida Market President at Florida Blue, overseeing operations across 36 counties from Palm Coast to Pensacola. He has been with the company for over 36 years.
When is Darnell Smith retiring?
Smith has announced his retirement, effective this summer.
What is Florida Blue’s succession plan?
Florida Blue has confirmed that a succession plan is in place to ensure a smooth transition following Smith’s departure, maintaining continuity and stability in its North Florida operations.
What was Smith’s role before becoming Market President?
Before his tenure as Market President, Smith served as Group Vice President for Florida Blue’s Service Organization and Business Process Management Organization.
What community organizations has Smith been involved with?
Smith has been actively involved in various community organizations, including the Sulzbacher Center, Cathedral Arts Project, First Coast YMCA, LIFT JAX, JAX Chamber, JAXUSA Policy Council, United Way of Northeast Florida, A.L. Lewis Black Opportunity and Impact Fund, and Blue Zones Jacksonville.
Who is Brian D. Pieninck?
Brian D. Pieninck is the newly appointed President and CEO of GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation, effective October 1, 2025. He will also lead Florida Blue and oversee the strategic direction of all GuideWell subsidiaries.
What is Florida Blue’s mission?
Florida Blue’s mission is to help people and communities achieve better health, ensuring a seamless transition and continued service excellence in the North Florida region.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Retirement Announcement | Darnell Smith, North Florida Market President at Florida Blue, announces retirement effective this summer after over 36 years with the company. |
| Succession Plan | Florida Blue confirms a succession plan is in place to ensure a smooth transition following Smith’s departure, maintaining continuity in North Florida operations. |
| Career Highlights | Smith served as Group Vice President for Florida Blue’s Service Organization and Business Process Management Organization before becoming Market President. In 2023, he was appointed Chief of Staff for Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, serving as an executive on loan through a contract between the city and Florida Blue. Mike Weinstein succeeded Smith in this role in 2024. |
| Community Engagement | Smith has been actively involved in various community organizations, including the Sulzbacher Center, Cathedral Arts Project, First Coast YMCA, LIFT JAX, JAX Chamber, JAXUSA Policy Council, United Way of Northeast Florida, A.L. Lewis Black Opportunity and Impact Fund, and Blue Zones Jacksonville. |
| Background on Florida Blue | Florida Blue, headquartered in Jacksonville, is the state’s leading health insurer, serving over 5 million members across all 67 Florida counties. The company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. |
| Recent Leadership Changes | In August 2025, GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation appointed Brian D. Pieninck as its new President and CEO, effective October 1. Pieninck, formerly President and CEO of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, will also lead Florida Blue and oversee the strategic direction of all GuideWell subsidiaries. |
| Looking Ahead | As Florida Blue prepares for Smith’s retirement, the company remains focused on its mission to help people and communities achieve better health, ensuring a seamless transition and continued service excellence in the North Florida region. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Village at Cedar Hills Opens 90 Affordable Housing Units in Jacksonville
Affordable U.S. Cities for Retirement Comparable to Mexico
Residents Facing Cold Shower Blues in Jacksonville Senior Living Facility
TGL Launches New Interactive Golf League
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
