Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) President and CEO Richard Boals said in a March 24 release that he will be retiring July 1.

Boals, who served as president for 14 years, said he will continue as a consultant to the board, the BCBSAZ release said.

“Rich is one of a handful of leaders whose impact can be felt throughout Arizona,”BCBSAZ Board Chair Alton Washington said in the release. “Rich incorporated his commitment to service, care of others, professionalism and focus on community throughout the Blue fabric. We are indebted for the legacy he embedded in the culture of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.”

Boals began his career with BCBSAZ in 1971 as a management trainee following four years of service with the U.S. Air Force. While working full time with the corporation, he earned an associate degree from Phoenix College and a bachelor’s in accounting from Arizona State University. He became vice president of finance in 1984 and executive vice president and chief operating officer two years later. In August 2001 he was named president and became CEO in 2003. He was elected to the board of directors in 2002.

Boals also served as board chair of both TriWest Healthcare and Trinnovate Ventures, the release said.

Sandy Gibson, executive vice president and chief operating officer, will serve as president and CEO until the board search committee names a new president and CEO.