We’re proud to share that Paul Schuhmacher and Bhrugu Pange, both Managing Directors at AArete, have been recognized as 2025 Top Consultants by Consulting Magazine.

Paul was honored for Excellence in Client Service, and Bhrugu for Excellence in Digital Transformation. These recognitions highlight deep industry knowledge, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to delivering purposeful value to clients.

Paul Schuhmacher: A Trusted Partner for Complex Challenges

Paul has built a strong reputation as a trusted advisor to some of the country’s most complex healthcare payer organizations. His collaborative approach helps clients navigate change with confidence and clarity.

As co-lead of AArete’s payer practice, Paul partners with many leading health plans to improve health outcomes, manage costs, and create measurable, long-term value. He has supported more than 140 health plans across all 50 states and multiple lines of business. His efforts at AArete have led to more than $1 billion in medical cost savings through strategic negotiations, network optimization, utilization management, configuration, and other cost-of-care levers.

What sets Paul apart is his hands-on, client-first mindset. He develops trusted relationships with executives, working closely with them to tackle complex issues through transparency, rigor, and a focus on lasting impact. His Excellence in Client Service award recognizes the deep trust he’s earned by guiding clients through market expansion and delivering sustainable success.

Bhrugu Pange: Bringing Digital Strategy to Life

Bhrugu leads AArete’s digital and technology services, helping organizations navigate major change with a focus on data, AI, cloud, and digital strategy. With more than 25 years of experience, he supports clients in improving user experiences and fueling growth through modernizing data platforms and implementing AI-driven automation.

He keeps the focus on real-world outcomes by developing strategies that incorporate right-fit technology that is affordable and future-proof.

His recent successes include designing an AI-powered digital front door that boosted member satisfaction by 12%, implementing a CRM and automation platform that improved customer acquisition by 15%, and helping reduce operational costs by 15% through a cloud-based analytics platform.

Known for his thoughtful leadership and ability to simplify complexity, Bhrugu helps clients become more agile, improve satisfaction, and reduce costs. His Excellence in Digital Transformation award recognizes his commitment to aligning innovation with meaningful, lasting impact.

Congratulations to Paul and Bhrugu on this well-deserved honor. Your work reflects the best of AArete—strong leadership, real impact, and a genuine commitment to helping clients succeed. We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with you and excited to see how your leadership will strengthen the future of AArete.