Chief Executive Officer
AETNA Better Health NJ
Joseph W. Manger is recognized as an expert in New Jersey’s Medicaid Managed Care. With over 20 years of experience, Manger has successfully managed the launch of numerous Medicaid Managed Care expansion initiatives. These initiatives include the transition of Aged, Blind, and Disabled Medicaid beneficiaries to managed care; implementation of Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) and Fully Integrated Dual Special Needs Program (D-SNP); and the expansion of Autism Spectrum Disorder benefits.
A New Jersey native, Manger graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Planning and Design from Cook College, Rutgers University. Manger began his career with the State of New Jersey’s Office of Management and Budget. Then he worked for 12 years at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, where he developed an extensive background in environmental equity, environmental and urban planning, and air pollution control.
Following his career with the State of New Jersey, Manger worked for 19 years for Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey’s Medicaid Program. He ensured the company complied with applicable legislative mandates and regulatory requirements. Manger oversaw the proper coordination and preparation for external government regulatory audits and served as the contact with the Department of Human Services, Department of Health, Department of Banking and Insurance, and other related agencies.
Manger currently serves are the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Aetna Better Health of New Jersey (ABHNJ) — a division of Aetna that is one of the nation’s leading diversified health care benefits companies and part of the CVS Health family. As CEO, Manger is a strategic visionary and motivational leader with a passion to transform the health care system and the communities he serves. Manger manages operational aspects of various functional areas within ABHNJ, implements new programs and initiatives, and addresses issues that impacts New Jersey’s Medicaid population.
Manger is and has always been a champion for community development. Throughout the years, he has dedicated his time to volunteer activities and leadership roles within the community. Organizations he has supported include: Washington Township Environmental Commission, Washington Township Outdoors Education Task Force, Hamilton Township Junior Chamber of Commerce and NJ Blue Star Memorial Highway Council. Manger served as President for the Washington Township Board of Education, and on the board of directors and/or trustees for Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey, Parents Inc., and Youth Environmental Society.
Manger is known for his jovial sense of humor and dedication to his work, which is self-evident from the numerous successful initiatives and programs, and his service to the community.