Note: This nomination is submitted with support from Deb Rice-Johnson, CEO of Diversified Businesses for Highmark Inc. and Chief Growth Officer
After proudly serving his country in the Army for nearly 28 years, Anthony Groff has dedicated his career and life to helping veterans and their families successfully transition to the civilian world. At Highmark, Groff leads veterans support and career development initiatives across a 38,000 person-strong organization.
Thanks to his leadership and commitment to harnessing the skills and experiences of veterans, Highmark has earned national recognition for its military-friendly culture. This recognition includes achieving the 2024 Military Friendly® Employer Gold-designation by exceeding Military Friendly® standards in hiring and onboarding, opportunity and advancement, culture and commitment, support and retention, policies and compliance, and recruiting and sourcing. Under Groff’s guidance, Highmark has been named a Military-Friendly employer for six consecutive years. He takes time to connect personally with veteran team members and with veterans in the community looking to join Highmark or Allegheny Health Network. Groff is a strong supporter of the Guardian Angel Medical Service Dog program, which pairs veterans with life-saving companions who help them heal physically and mentally. Highmark has sponsored several Guardian Angel dogs who have been paired with local veterans.
In addition to his veteran-focused accomplishments at Highmark, Groff has held various leadership roles for the Pittsburgh Veterans Employer Coalition (PVEC). PVEC is a community-based employment collaborative that aims to advance the lives and combat the underemployment of Pittsburgh's veterans and military-connected individuals, working with local employers and higher education institutions. He has also volunteered for Stand Down Pittsburgh (which provides free meals, health care and legal/career services to veterans), Wreaths Across America (honoring veterans with wreaths at miliary cemeteries), and veteran-focused food drives in the Western Pennsylvania region.
Multifaceted leader with over 35 years of progressive experience. I have a proven ability to define, implement, and deliver impactful cross-functional initiatives and programs. Strategic planning background, providing data-driven insights to leadership, and building high-performing teams that foster collaboration and drive engagement. Excel at stakeholder engagement, adeptly collaborating with partners to achieve common goals. With a commitment to belonging initiatives, supported by relevant certifications and leadership roles, I am passionate about creating welcoming environments. My involvement in veteran-focused initiatives, including developing strategies and fostering military-civilian partnerships, highlights my dedication to supporting and empowering this community. Husband and Father. My wife has been on this journey with me for over 30 years. We have two boys, one is currently serving with the USAF Reserve, and one with PNC Internal Audit. For hobbies, I go to the gym and work around the house.
Anthony Groff is a proven leader at Highmark Health, where he drives impactful change through strategic program management and a passion for veteran initiatives. He came to Highmark Health, after a 27+ year career, with the US Army. Leveraging 35+ years of experience, he leads cross-functional teams and provides data-driven insights to leadership. As the Enterprise Veteran lead, Anthony champions Veteran support, both inside of Highmark and in the community, through engagement plans, resource groups, Military Advisory Council, fostering military-civilian partnerships and strategic partnerships. He is dedicated to fostering a strong environment of belonging while achieving operational excellence within Highmark.
