Pekin Insurance Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pekin Insurance has 5 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, information technology, and human resources.

Driven by a legacy of service, Pekin Insurance provides comprehensive insurance solutions across auto, home, life, health, and business sectors, upholding a commitment to policyholder security and community well-being since 1921.

Leadership Roles at Pekin Insurance

  • Chief Financial Officer - Ryan Hanson
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - Joel Jackson
  • President and Chief Operating Officer, Life - Brian Lee
  • Chief Information Officer & Vice President - Christopher Izatt
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Cynthia Blackburn
  • Ryan Hanson - Chief Financial Officer

    Ryan Hanson, the Chief Financial Officer at Pekin Insurance, directs all financial planning, accounting, and investment strategies. Overseeing the fiscal health of the organization, Hanson ensures robust financial controls and compliance with regulatory requirements across all insurance lines. This leadership role involves managing capital allocation, optimizing profitability, and driving financial performance to support the company's long-term growth objectives. By analyzing market trends and economic indicators, Ryan Hanson provides critical insights that inform strategic decision-making, safeguarding the company's financial stability and enhancing shareholder value. The Chief Financial Officer's purview extends to risk management from a financial perspective, ensuring adequate reserves and sound investment practices to meet policyholder obligations.
    Ryan Hanson

    Joel Jackson - Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

    Joel Jackson, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Pekin Insurance, orchestrates the day-to-day operational execution across the enterprise. Overseeing claims processing, underwriting operations, and customer service functions, Jackson drives efficiency and service excellence. This critical role involves optimizing business processes, implementing operational improvements, and ensuring seamless service delivery for auto, home, life, and business insurance products. By fostering cross-departmental collaboration, Joel Jackson enhances operational synergy and responsiveness to market demands. The Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on streamlining workflows, managing resources effectively, and upholding the company's commitment to reliable and timely policyholder support, directly impacting customer satisfaction and operational integrity.
    Joel Jackson

    Brian Lee - President and Chief Operating Officer, Life

    Brian Lee, the President and Chief Operating Officer, Life at Pekin Insurance, spearheads the strategic direction and operational management of the life insurance division. Overseeing product development, sales strategies, and policy administration for life insurance offerings, Lee ensures market competitiveness and policyholder satisfaction. This leadership position involves driving growth initiatives, managing actuarial functions, and maintaining regulatory compliance specific to the life insurance sector. By cultivating strong relationships with agents and distribution partners, Brian Lee expands market reach and strengthens the company's presence in life insurance. The President and Chief Operating Officer, Life's dedication to innovation and customer-centric solutions underpins the division's success and commitment to providing essential financial security.

    Christopher Izatt - Chief Information Officer & Vice President

    Christopher Izatt, the Chief Information Officer & Vice President at Pekin Insurance, directs the company's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all aspects of information systems, cybersecurity, and digital transformation initiatives, Izatt ensures robust and secure technological operations. This pivotal role involves implementing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency, data management, and customer engagement across all insurance lines. By aligning technology investments with business objectives, Christopher Izatt drives the modernization of IT systems to support Pekin Insurance's strategic goals. The Chief Information Officer & Vice President's leadership ensures the company maintains a competitive technological edge, safeguarding sensitive data and enabling seamless digital experiences for policyholders and employees.

    Cynthia Blackburn - Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Cynthia Blackburn, the Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Pekin Insurance, leads all human capital management strategies and initiatives. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, benefits, and organizational culture, Blackburn fosters a high-performing and engaged workforce. This executive role involves aligning HR policies with the company's mission and values, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment across all departments. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Cynthia Blackburn cultivates a strong organizational culture that attracts and retains top talent. The Senior Vice President & Chief HR Officer's strategic approach to human resources is integral to Pekin Insurance's operational success and its ability to deliver exceptional service to policyholders.
    Cynthia Blackburn

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pekin Insurance Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pekin Insurance?
    Pekin Insurance is led by Ryan Hanson (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Joel Jackson (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer) and Brian Lee (President and Chief Operating Officer, Life).
    Who is part of Pekin Insurance’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pekin Insurance includes leaders such as Ryan Hanson (Chief Financial Officer), Joel Jackson (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer), Brian Lee (President and Chief Operating Officer, Life) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pekin Insurance have?
    Pekin Insurance has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pekin Insurance’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pekin Insurance includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, President and Chief Operating Officer, Life, Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer.