MINNEAPOLIS, MN. (June 17, 2025) - VITAL WorkLife, a leading expert in mental health and well-being solutions for healthcare organizations, today announced the appointment of Aric Bandy as its new President & Chief Operating Officer, effective May 27, 2025. Mr. Bandy will play a pivotal role in shaping the company's strategic direction, operational excellence, and team engagement.
Mr. Bandy brings a wealth of leadership experience and a proven track record of fueling growth by focusing on operational, financial, and cultural health. His extensive background in professional services and technology, including expertise in AI and machine learning, coupled with a deep understanding of go-to-market strategy, positions him uniquely to drive VITAL WorkLife’s continued innovation and impact.
"We are thrilled to welcome Aric to VITAL WorkLife as our new President & COO," said Mitchell Best, CEO of VITAL WorkLife. "Aric brings deep experience in leading organizations through strategic growth, operational transformation, and team development, with a clear focus on long-term sustainability. His personal commitment to mental health and well-being is a powerful advantage as our business continues to require more integrated technology to deliver personalized mental health support for clinicians and healthcare professionals, helping them thrive both professionally and personally.”
In his role as President & COO, Mr. Bandy will collaborate with the CEO on strategic planning while leading operational management and leadership development that fosters a strong organizational culture and drives meaningful outcomes.
This appointment coincides with the retirement of Susan Hilt-Lagos, who has held senior leadership roles as COO and the strategic leader of Marketing, Sales, and Account Management (MSA) since 2021. Ms. Hilt-Lagos was instrumental in transforming the MSA departments to meet evolving market needs, while also strengthening operational efficiency across the organization. She played a key role in modernizing the VITAL WorkLife brand and sharpening its competitive differentiation. Ms. Hilt-Lagos will officially retire effective June 27, 2025.
"I want to acknowledge and thank Susan for her exceptional leadership over the past four years," Mr. Best added. "Her impact has been profound, and I’m deeply grateful for all we’ve accomplished together and for the friendship that has grown along the way. Our work with Aric will continue to build on this strong foundation and drive momentum forward."
Mr. Bandy has a B.A. in Marketing Management from the University of St. Thomas. He serves as a mentor at Minnesota Emerging Software Advisory (MESA) and Executive Springboard and is a volunteer advisor to the Minnesota State University Customer Experience Program.
About VITAL WorkLife
VITAL WorkLife partners with healthcare organizations to measurably improve the mental health and well-being of their workforce. With an exclusive healthcare focus—and an experienced network of physician peer coaches and behavioral health consultants—VITAL WorkLife matches clinicians and employees with tailored solutions to enhance well-being, career longevity, and satisfaction. To learn more, visit VITALWorkLife.com.
