FERGUSON — Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal , D-University City, is pleased to announce that Centene Corp. has selected Ferguson, Mo., as the location for its new claims processing facility. Centene plans to bring 200 new jobs to the city by the end of the year.
“It is with great pleasure that I announce to Ferguson residents that the Centene Corporation is bringing 200 jobs directly to Ferguson for young people and families who have been affected by the tragedy of the last month,” said Chappelle-Nadal.
Centene is a Fortune 500 managed care company based in Clayton, Mo., generating $10.5 billion in annual revenue. The new center will process claims from its Missouri-based State Health Plan, and any overflow from its contracts in other states.
On Friday, Sen. Chappelle-Nadal met with Centene’s chairman and chief executive, Michael Neidorff, to discuss plans for Centene’s investment in Ferguson. “Michael and I discussed his company’s business expansion into Ferguson and I look forward to working with him to find the right people to fit into these positions. It is my pleasure to bring this positive economic news to a city that has experienced the trauma of the Michael Brown killing and resulting protests.”
According to the company, the unrest following Brown’s death prompted Centene to select the city for its expansion.
“Centene views this as a way to help the community. We have the confidence in the residents of Ferguson,” Neidorff said in a statement. “This is the right thing to do for the community, state and our shareholders. It is time for action, not talk.”
Centene will offer tuition reimbursement, on-site childcare, as well as full medical, dental, and vision benefits to employees. The company is pursuing an aggressive timeline to open the center by 2015. Applications will be accepted before the end of this year.
Brown’s death has sparked protests and violence over the past three weeks, bringing international attention to the city. Protesters, activists, and community leaders, including Chappelle-Nadal, have called for new jobs to help revitalize the economy.
“After being subjected to violence and fear for so long, young people need this kind of hope and opportunity,” Chappelle-Nadal said. “These jobs will not only give individuals a second chance, but will also restore faith in the business community that surrounds Ferguson.”
For more information, contact Sen. Chappelle-Nadal at 314-448-2457, or visit her Senate Website at www.senate.mo.gov/chappelle-nadal. |
