ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) today announced the appointment of Jesse N. Hunter as Executive Vice President, Corporate Development, effective April 22, 2008. Reporting directly to Michael F. Neidorff, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Centene, Mr. Hunter will continue to direct business development opportunities, including mergers and acquisitions, for the Company.

Mr. Neidorff stated, "Mr. Hunter's insight and contributions have led to tremendous growth opportunities for Centene over the past several years. I am pleased to welcome him to the executive team, as we continue to grow and diversify our business."

Mr. Hunter joined Centene in 2002 and has held positions with increasing responsibility for Centene over the past six years. Most recently, he was Senior Vice President, Corporate Development. Previously, he worked in the mergers and acquisitions department at Humana Inc.

Mr. Hunter received a Bachelor's degree in Finance from Miami University in Ohio and an M.B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis.

About Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation is a leading multi-line healthcare enterprise that provides programs and related services to individuals receiving benefits under Medicaid, including the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicare (Special Needs Plans). The Company operates health plans in Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, New Jersey, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. In addition, the Company contracts with other healthcare and commercial organizations to provide specialty services including behavioral health, life and health management, long-term care, managed vision, nurse triage, pharmacy benefits management and treatment compliance. Information regarding Centene is available via the Internet at www.centene.com.

Source: Centene Corporation