Centene Set For Chief Financial Officer Transition

Centene is set for a major change in its financial leadership after it announced that its Chief Financial Officer Drew Asher will step down in December 2026.

Drew’s successor is set to be Chris Neczypor, who will join the business in September 2026 and work alongside Drew before assuming the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer role on 1 January 2027.  

Drew will remain with the business until the end of 2027 when he retires to ensure a smooth transition. 

Discussing his time at the company, Drew says: "I am incredibly proud of how Centene navigated through unprecedented change while remaining disciplined in execution and focused on long-term value."

"The foundation we've built and the outstanding team we've assembled give me confidence in Centene's ability to transform healthcare and provide value for shareholders. I look forward to working closely with Sarah [Centene CEO] and Chris through 2027 to support Centene's continued progress." 

Deeply experienced executive

Chris joins Centene from Lincoln Financial, a leading provider of life insurance, annuities, group benefits and retirement solutions, where he spent over eight years.

He held several senior positions at the firm, including Chief Strategy Officer before moving to the Chief Financial Officer role.

Chris also spent more than a decade in investment and financial services roles, including stints at Goldman Sachs, PwC and Kingdon Capital. 

"I'm excited to welcome Chris," says Sarah London, CEO of Centene. "Chris brings a proven track record of strengthening financial performance, optimising operations and creating long-term shareholder value. 

“Just as importantly, he is a collaborative, values-driven leader who understands how to build strong teams and drive meaningful impact. Our organisation will benefit from his expertise, energy and perspective as we deliver on Centene's next phase of transformation and growth."

Commenting on his new position, Chris explains: "It's an honour to join a company with such an extraordinary mission. I look forward to serving as Centene's next Chief Financial Officer and working alongside Sarah and the leadership team to transform the health of communities across our country." 

Navigating headwinds

Drew leaves Centene having helped the company navigate a challenging period, with company profitability being squeezed in its Medicaid and Obamacare businesses in recent years.

Despite these obstacles, total company revenue increased from US$126bn in 2021 to US$195bn in 2025 during Drew’s tenure.

Reiterating this impressive feat, Sarah continues: “I want to thank Drew for his exceptional contributions to Centene. His strategic perspective, financial discipline and unwavering focus on value creation set the stage for Centene's next chapter of growth and success. 

“His partnership has been invaluable to me, and I am grateful that we will be able to continue to draw on Drew's expertise as we transition into the company's next chapter." 

CFO changes across the US healthcare sector

Centene’s Chief Financial Officer transition is the latest in a series of similar personnel changes across the US healthcare sector. 

GE Healthcare announced in July 2026 that its Chief Financial Officer Jay Saccaro is stepping down, with long-standing GE finance executive George Newcomb appointed interim CFO while the company searches for a permanent successor. 

Pfizer’s Chief Financial Officer Dave Denton also announced in June 2026 that he would be leaving the company, while similar changes to financial leadership have been announced at Amgen and Baxter in recent months.