Craig Mengert is a transformational executive and industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience driving innovation, operational excellence, and strategic growth in the healthcare and software sectors. As Chief Executive of TriZetto, a Cognizant company, Craig oversees one of the most critical technology portfolios in the U.S. healthcare system—delivering software and platform services that support millions of healthcare transactions, payer operations, and provider engagements every day. Under his leadership since 2019, the organization has achieved a dramatic turnaround—moving from a negative CAGR to sustained double-digit organic growth, now consistently exceeding 14% year-over-year. Today, Craig leads a $1 billion P&L with over 44% operating margins.
Craig’s success is rooted in a deep understanding of both business operations and the unique dynamics of healthcare delivery and financing. His career began at Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, where he spent over a decade leading IT strategy, systems development, and process improvement initiatives. There, he was responsible for implementing and managing core platforms such as QNXT, NASCO, and MEDecision, while also overseeing major cost-reduction programs that saved the company millions annually. He also led SOX compliance efforts, introduced offshore development teams for scalability, and built a cross-trained workforce that enhanced performance and morale.
In 2008, Craig joined TriZetto, later acquired by Cognizant, where he rapidly rose through the leadership ranks. As Regional President, he managed a $500 million business segment, developed deep relationships with C-suite stakeholders across the payer ecosystem, and expanded TriZetto’s footprint through a combination of software innovation and strategic service delivery. His approach to customer satisfaction, team performance, and account-based strategy transformed TriZetto’s regional market presence, positioning it as a go-to partner for large-scale payer and provider transformation initiatives.
Since becoming CEO, Craig has been the architect behind TriZetto’s long-term vision to simplify healthcare through better software, data insights, and platform integration. His leadership spans sales, software development, client services, marketing, and M&A strategy—fostering a performance-driven culture while navigating the complex demands of the healthcare IT space. He has overseen the creation and execution of three-year and five-year strategic plans aligned with Cognizant’s broader corporate objectives, and has maintained a laser focus on operational efficiency, customer retention, and scalable growth.
Craig’s expertise lies in leading SaaS organizations, managing complex transformation programs, and aligning enterprise-level technology strategy with evolving market demands. A frequent speaker at healthcare and technology conferences, he brings boardroom-level insight to discussions on industry disruption, digital health innovation, and operational scalability. He currently serves in an advisory capacity with TSIA (Technology & Services Industry Association) and is exploring additional board service opportunities with companies positioned for growth and innovation in healthcare or enterprise software.
Craig holds a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Pace University and is recognized by peers and clients alike for his disciplined leadership, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to improving healthcare through smarter technology. Now, with a robust foundation of operational experience and executive leadership, he is looking to apply his knowledge and insights at the board level, where he can continue to guide organizations toward resilience, innovation, and sustainable success.
Character: Craig Mengert is a principled and performance-driven leader who inspires teams through integrity, accountability, and a deep commitment to simplifying healthcare.
Knowledge: With over 30 years of hands-on experience in healthcare and enterprise software, Craig brings unparalleled expertise in SaaS, payer systems, and operational transformation.
Strategic: Craig has consistently delivered long-term growth by aligning product, service, and organizational strategies to evolving market needs and corporate objectives.
Communication: He excels at building strong executive relationships and communicating complex technology value propositions in clear, impactful ways that drive stakeholder alignment and client success.
