About Custom Design Benefits
A Different Kind of TPA
Custom Design Benefits (CBD) is an independent third-party administrator (TPA) specializing in self-funded health plans and headquartered in Cincinnati. We pride ourselves on being fully, and privately held, not owned by private equity, aggregator, or an insurance company.
Since 1991, we have partnered with brokers and employers to help control healthcare costs, improve plan performance, and deliver a better member experience.
We support employers domiciled in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, with members across nearly every state. We work through brokers, not around them, so relationships stay aligned and clients receive consistent, strategic guidance.
For more than 35 years, our focus has remained the same. Reduce unnecessary healthcare spend, provide clear insight into plan performance, and deliver service that builds long-term confidence.
Our Story
CDB has grown steadily by staying focused on what matters most. Strong partnerships, disciplined execution, and a culture that supports both. Along the way, our culture has remained a constant. Team events, community involvement, and shared success are part of how we operate every day.
Founded with a focus on self-funded plan administration and personalized service.
Expanded across the Midwest, building long-term relationships with brokers and employer groups.
Julie Mueller joined as President and minority owner.
Introduced TrueCost, our specialized Reference Based Pricing strategy, and enhanced member advocacy programs to improve outcomes and satisfaction.
2016 — Julie Mueller became President & CEO.
Strengthened capabilities to support multi-location employers and members nationwide, with deeper investment in reporting, transparency, and plan performance.
CEO, Julie Mueller, purchased the rest of the company from previous partners, reinforcing independence and long-term commitment to clients, brokers, and members.
Leadership at CDB
CDB is led by a team with deep experience in third-party administration, self-funded health plans, and cost management strategy. Their focus is consistent. Help brokers and employers achieve better plan performance while maintaining the service and transparency CDB is known for.
Julie D. Mueller,
President & CEO
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Julie Mueller has more than 40 years of experience in the health benefits industry, including leadership roles in third-party administration and self-funded health plans. She joined Custom Design Benefits in 2003 after serving as a senior executive with a national TPA.
As President and CEO, Julie leads the organization with a focus on performance, accountability, and service. She recently became the sole owner of the company, reinforcing its independence and long-term commitment to brokers and employer clients.
Julie is known for building strong teams and maintaining a culture where service is personal and results matter.
Amanda Guinan,
Chief Strategy Officer
Amanda Guinan brings more than 25 years of experience in the benefits industry. Since joining Custom Design Benefits in 2009, she has helped shape how the organization supports brokers and employers.
As Chief Strategy Officer, Amanda leads the sales organization and drives the development of cost-containment strategies that help reduce healthcare spend while improving plan outcomes. Her work connects market insight with practical execution.
Amanda is recognized for turning complex challenges into clear strategies that deliver results.
Chris Haacke,
Chief Operating Officer
Chris Haacke joined Custom Design Benefits in 2025 as Chief Operating Officer, bringing a strong background in operational leadership and execution.
He leads daily operations and oversees the implementation of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), helping create clarity, accountability, and consistency across the organization.
Chris focuses on aligning teams, improving processes, and ensuring the business delivers reliable, high-quality service as it grows.
What Sets Us Apart
Custom Design Benefits is proud to be affiliated with organizations and accolades that reflect our standards for service, performance, and workplace culture.
These affiliations reinforce our commitment to operating at a high standard while continuing to evolve alongside the needs of employers and brokers.
How We Work with Brokers
Our model is built around teamwork and collaboration. Always has been.
We are broker friendly and value working closely with our broker partners to serve the clients. We work alongside you to strengthen your strategy, support your recommendations, and improve outcomes.
From initial conversations through renewal, we provide the data, insight, and execution needed to help you retain clients and grow your book with confidence.
This alignment is central to how we operate and one of the reasons our partnerships last.
Our Core Values Aligned with the Custom Way
At Custom Design Benefits, we demonstrate our dedication through extraordinary service, both internally and externally. Our culture is shaped by behaviors and values that guide how we work, solve problems, and support one another.
Take Care of Our Clients
Get the Facts- Get Clear on Expectations
- Create the “WOW”
- Challenge the Process
- Communicate Personally
Deliver Results
- Be a Fanatic About Response Time
- Own It
- Honor Commitments
- Work Smart
- Be a Lifelong Learner
Be Positive & “Bring It”
- Celebrate the Team's Successes
- Make Quality Personal
- Align with Change
- Celebrate Success
- Keep Things Fun
Be a Great Teammate/Collaborate
- Listen Generously
- Speak Openly
- Assume Positive Intent
- Practice Blameless Problem Solving
- Take Care of Yourself
These fundamentals shape the experience our clients, brokers, and members have with us every day.
Careers at CDB
Our success is driven by our people because we care, work hard, and have fun. We’re focused on delivering the utmost care and service to our clients, partners, and to each other.
Our people are experienced, deeply knowledgeable, and stay at CDB for years. The tenure you see across our team reflects the commitment we have to each other and the positive environment we’ve cultivated.
CDB is a place where people are supported, challenged, and recognized for the impact they make.
Let’s Build Something Better
Whether you are a broker or an employer, Custom Design Benefits is built to deliver results that last.
We combine strategy, transparency, and service to help plans perform better and partnerships grow stronger.