Centene reshuffles leadership in growth strategy

Health insurer Centene Corporation has reshuffled the roles and responsibilities for a number of senior executives to support its growth and development strategy.

The move is a part of Centene's policy of rotating executives as part of its executive development program.

Claudio Abreu, EVP, specialized markets, business operations and shared services, will continue in that role and will assume additional responsibility for new business contracting, provider strategies and quality programs.

Cynthia Brinkley has been appointed chief administrative and markets officer with continued responsibility for US and international markets. Brinkley will also be responsible for a newly formed transformation office, project management, integration planning and other office services including facilities and physical security.

Brandy Burkhalter has been appointed EVP, operations, with responsibility for products, shared services and other business operations.

Chris Koster, SVP, corporate services, will continue in that role and will assume responsibilities for compliance, internal audit and risk management while the company conducts a search for Burkhalter's replacement.

Brent Layton, chief business development officer, will continue in that role and will assume responsibility for international business development, in addition to his current domestic business development responsibilities.

Brinkley, Burkhalter, Koster and Layton will continue to report to Michael Neidorff, chairman and chief executive officer. Abreu will report to Brandy Burkhalter.

"We will continue to implement strategies across all aspects of the company that take Centene to the next level," said Neidorff. "This rotation of corporate responsibilities is consistent with our previously announced organizational program in support of Centene's growth and development.

"We are fortunate to have a strong management team and believe that Centene's success as a leading healthcare provider will continue to be driven by collaboration at the top and cultivating leaders that are focused on serving our members and pursuing value-creating, strategic growth."