NEW YORK — Health insurance startup Oscar has brought on Angela Calman, who most recently was with IBM’s Watson Health, to lead its communications.

In her new role as VP of communications, Calman will oversee Oscar’s corporate communications efforts including media relations and strategy, thought leadership, and reputation management. Launched in 2012, Oscar operates on a platform designed to engage policy holders and guide them in their healthcare decisions.

Oscar's previous communications head, Khan Shoieb, left the company in August to pursue an MBA at Harvard.

Calman brings more than 20 years of experience in healthcare communications, working both in-house and for agencies. Most recently, she spent a year-plus leading communications for Watson Health as VP of communications.


Before that, she spent three years as VP of communications at 23andMe, the direct-to-consumer personal genetic testing service. Prior to that, she was VP of communications and senior media advisor at Intuitive Surgical and held leadership roles in Weber Shandwick and Edelman’s health practices.

“We are thrilled to have Angela join Oscar to lead our strong communications team," said Joel Klein, the company’s chief policy and strategy officer. "Her deep understanding of the complex health care industry coupled with an impressive history working with some of the biggest names in health tech will be a great asset to Oscar."