PLAINVIEW, N.Y.—Longtime managed vision care executive Steve Holden has been named president of Davis Vision, the managed vision operation of Highmark’s HVHC subsidiary, effective immediately. Holden succeeds Joe Carlomusto, who retired as of Aug. 3 after working with Davis Vision since 1986.

Holden was president of Cole Managed Vision (now EyeMed Vision Care) before Cole Vision was sold to Luxottica Group (NYSE: LUX) in late 2004. A 32-year veteran of the healthcare industry, Holden began his career at American Hospital Supply and Baxter Healthcare, holding senior positions before moving into pharmacy benefit management at both Caremark and Value Rx, now a part of Express Scripts. He also has experience in OD education, disease management, medical devices, home healthcare and healthcare systems and services, according to HVHC.

In addition, Holden is a past president and founding board member of the National Association of Vision Care Plans. Since the Cole Vision acquisition, he has been working as a consultant.

“Given Steve’s extensive industry experience, we know that Davis Vision is getting a seasoned executive with outstanding credentials and leadership skills,” said HVHC’s newly named president and chief executive officer, David Holmberg, who is also chairman of Davis Vision’s board of directors.

“We are very grateful to Joe Carlomusto for the many contributions that he’s made to the company during the last 22 years,” Holmberg added. “His contributions and dedication in growing the business, along with commitment to public responsibility and corporate image, helped to make Davis Vision, by far, the largest and most respected provider of vision care services in the East, and second-largest nationally.”

Carlomusto became president of Davis Vision July 1, 2006, following the retirement of Walt Froh. Carlomusto had previously been the company’s chief operating officer and chief marketing officer.