Howard Shandell is a seasoned healthcare and employee benefits executive whose four decades of professional experience have been defined by a singular mission: aligning the interests of patients, providers, and payers to achieve optimal health outcomes while ensuring long-term financial sustainability. His career reflects a deep commitment to transforming healthcare delivery through innovative benefit strategies that prioritize both quality and cost efficiency.
Currently serving as an Employee Benefit Consultant and Principal at The Olson Group, Inc., Howard continues to advise organizations on strategic healthcare solutions that improve member outcomes and deliver measurable financial value. In this role, he brings a consultative approach rooted in decades of leadership, helping employers navigate the complexities of modern healthcare while maintaining a focus on performance guarantees and accountability.
Prior to joining The Olson Group, Howard spent over 20 years as President of Midwest Benefit Advisors, Inc., a firm he led with vision and purpose. Under his leadership, the organization became known for delivering clinically managed healthcare plans that not only improved patient outcomes but also reduced overall costs. His work emphasized transparency, efficiency, and innovation, positioning the firm as a trusted partner for businesses seeking smarter healthcare solutions.
Howard’s approach to healthcare is guided by his belief in systemic alignment. He champions a model where stakeholders work collaboratively toward shared goals, eliminating inefficiencies and improving care delivery. This philosophy is embodied in his widely embraced “5 R’s” framework, which has become a cornerstone of his advisory work and a guiding principle for organizations striving to optimize their healthcare strategies.
Throughout his career, Howard has demonstrated exceptional leadership in business development, strategic planning, and team building. His ability to identify opportunities within complex systems and implement practical, results-driven solutions has earned him recognition among peers and clients alike. His expertise spans employee benefits, insurance, risk management, and self-funded healthcare plans, making him a versatile and highly effective advisor.
In addition to his corporate leadership, Howard has experience as a General Partner, where he successfully organized large-scale fundraising events for B’nai B’rith. These events attracted over 800 attendees and featured some of the most prominent names in American sports, including Peyton Manning and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. This work highlights his ability to connect people, build relationships, and create impactful experiences beyond the boardroom.
Howard’s professional journey is marked by a consistent focus on improving systems that directly impact people’s lives. He understands that healthcare is not just a financial equation but a deeply human experience. This perspective informs his work, ensuring that every strategy he develops considers both the clinical and emotional aspects of care.
His passion for healthcare innovation is matched by his dedication to helping organizations thrive. Whether advising mid-sized companies or large enterprises, Howard brings a strategic lens that balances immediate needs with long-term sustainability. His ability to translate complex healthcare challenges into actionable solutions has made him a trusted partner across industries, including healthcare, medical facilities, and construction.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Howard is known for his vibrant personality and diverse interests. He enjoys cooking and baking, activities that reflect his attention to detail and creativity. He is also an avid football fan and traveler, embracing opportunities to explore new experiences and cultures. These personal passions contribute to his well-rounded perspective and ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life.
As he explores opportunities to serve on boards, Howard views this next chapter as a natural extension of his career. He brings not only technical expertise but also a relationship-driven approach that fosters collaboration and innovation. His interest in board service is fueled by a desire to contribute strategic insight while expanding his network and engaging with forward-thinking organizations.
Howard Shandell’s career is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. His unwavering commitment to improving healthcare systems, combined with his extensive experience and strategic mindset, positions him as a valuable asset to any organization seeking sustainable growth and meaningful impact.
In an industry often defined by complexity and fragmentation, Howard stands out as a unifying force—bringing clarity, alignment, and results to every endeavor he undertakes.
Character: Howard demonstrates integrity through his unwavering commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for all stakeholders. He consistently prioritizes ethical decision-making and long-term value over short-term gains. His dedication to aligning interests reflects a principled approach that builds trust and credibility.
Knowledge: With over 40 years of experience, Howard possesses deep expertise in healthcare systems, employee benefits, and insurance strategies. He understands both the operational and financial dimensions of healthcare, allowing him to deliver comprehensive solutions. His knowledge is continually applied in practical ways that drive measurable improvements.
Strategic: Howard excels at identifying inefficiencies and designing innovative frameworks that create sustainable results. His “5 R’s” philosophy exemplifies his ability to distill complex challenges into actionable strategies. He approaches every opportunity with a long-term vision that balances performance, cost, and quality.
Communication: Howard is a skilled communicator who effectively conveys complex ideas in a clear and relatable manner. His experience in client events and fundraising demonstrates his ability to engage diverse audiences. He builds strong relationships through transparency, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to shared success.
