Leyla Kokmen

Leyla Kokmen is an accomplished communications professional with extensive experience in various leadership roles. As the Executive Director of Executive & Internal Communications at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association since August 2014, Leyla has spearheaded communications for the nation's leading health care brand. Prior experience includes Associate Director of Corporate Communications at Optum, where Leyla managed internal and external communications for the Consumer Solutions Group, and Chief Communications Officer for Health Reform at the Minnesota Department of Health, leading communications strategies for significant health reforms. Leyla has also contributed to academia as a Lecturer and Program Coordinator in Journalism at the University of Minnesota, along with a diverse background in freelance writing and editing. Educational credentials include a B.A. in German Studies from Columbia University and an M.A. in Health Journalism from the University of Minnesota.