UnitedHealth Names Robert Hunter, Mike Cotton to Lead Key Government Units

Per UnitedHealth, Mike Cotton, a seasoned insurance executive, will lead the Medicaid division.

UnitedHealth Group has announced leadership changes across its government health programs, naming Robert Hunter as CEO of Government Programs and Mike Cotton as CEO of Medicaid.

The appointments come as Stephen Hemsley returns to the CEO role during a challenging financial phase for the healthcare giant, which is grappling with rising medical costs impacting its Medicare Advantage and Optum Health segments.

Hunter, who previously served as CEO of Medicare and Retirement at UnitedHealthcare, will now oversee both Medicare and Medicaid programs.

In a LinkedIn post, Hunter stated, “This integration is more than operational—it’s a strategic step forward for our businesses. By aligning our teams and capabilities, we’re better positioned, both now and for the future, to meet the distinct needs of those we serve and to drive greater impact in communities across the country.”

Mike Cotton, a seasoned insurance executive, will lead the Medicaid division. UnitedHealth confirmed his appointment to Fierce Healthcare.

Leadership Reshuffle Follows Organizational Strain

The structural changes follow a series of executive shifts across the company. At the end of June, UnitedHealth announced that Optum CEO Patrick Conway, M.D., would also lead Optum Health. Former Optum Health CEO Amar Desai has moved into a new role as president of Optum Integrated Care and vice-chairman of Optum Health.

Hemsley's return comes as UnitedHealth faces a federal criminal fraud investigation related to its Medicare Advantage billing practices. The company has also suspended its 2025 financial outlook and is scheduled to host its Q2 earnings call on July 29.

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