Ryan Turner Specialty Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ryan Turner Specialty has 10 executives leading key functions including property, casualty, professional lines, transportation, and workers compensation.

Driven by superior execution, Ryan Turner Specialty defines itself through creative solutions for retail brokerage firms, establishing industry leadership via specialized wholesale distribution of specialty insurance products and services.

Leadership Roles at Ryan Turner Specialty

  • Co-President & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Property) - Brenda Austenfeld
  • Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Casualty Practice) - Christopher Houska
  • Chief Financial Officer & Controller - Carol Wysocki
  • President (Texas) - Benjamin Ramundt
  • President (Long Island) - Joseph Davis
  • President, Binding Authorities (Chicago) - Thomas Mullins
  • President (RT ProExec) - Rachelle Best
  • President (Chicago) - Terrence McCann
  • President, National Personal Lines Practice - Claudia May
  • President - Susan Brennan
  • Brenda Austenfeld - Co-President & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Property)

    Brenda Austenfeld, the Co-President & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Property) at Ryan Turner Specialty, directs national property insurance strategies. Austenfeld oversees the development and execution of specialized property solutions, ensuring alignment with the company's mission of superior client execution. This leadership role involves managing broker relationships and identifying emerging market trends to provide creative offerings to retail brokerage firms. Austenfeld's focus on property lines directly supports the company's position as a leading wholesale distributor. Brenda Austenfeld drives innovation in property coverage, enhancing the firm's capacity to address complex client needs across various geographic regions. The executive ensures operational efficiency within the property division, contributing significantly to the company's overall market leadership and client satisfaction metrics. Austenfeld's strategic oversight guarantees the delivery of specialized expertise in property insurance.
    Brenda Austenfeld

    Christopher Houska - Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Casualty Practice)

    Christopher Houska, the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Casualty Practice) at Ryan Turner Specialty, spearheads national casualty insurance initiatives. Houska directs the strategic growth and operational excellence of the casualty practice, ensuring the delivery of specialized products and services. This leadership position involves cultivating strong relationships with retail brokerage firms and developing innovative solutions for complex casualty risks. Christopher Houska's deep industry knowledge drives the practice's ability to provide superior execution in a competitive market. The executive oversees the team responsible for underwriting, claims support, and client service within the casualty lines. By focusing on specialized expertise, Houska reinforces Ryan Turner Specialty's standing as a premier wholesale distributor. Christopher Houska's strategic vision ensures the practice remains at the forefront of casualty insurance solutions.
    Christopher Houska

    Carol Wysocki - Chief Financial Officer & Controller

    Carol Wysocki, the Chief Financial Officer & Controller at Ryan Turner Specialty, manages all financial operations and reporting. Wysocki ensures fiscal integrity and strategic financial planning, supporting the company's growth and operational efficiency. This critical role involves overseeing accounting, budgeting, and financial controls, directly impacting the firm's ability to provide creative solutions and maintain its leadership position. Carol Wysocki's expertise is vital for navigating the complex financial landscape of the specialty insurance industry. The executive's responsibilities extend to managing financial risk and optimizing resource allocation across all business units. By maintaining robust financial systems, Wysocki enables Ryan Turner Specialty to execute superiorly on behalf of its clients. Carol Wysocki's leadership ensures the financial stability necessary for sustained market impact and operational excellence in wholesale specialty insurance distribution.

    Benjamin Ramundt - President (Texas)

    Benjamin Ramundt, the President (Texas) at Ryan Turner Specialty, leads all operations and strategic initiatives within the Texas region. Ramundt focuses on expanding market share and enhancing client service for specialty insurance products across the state. This role involves managing a dedicated team to provide creative solutions and superior execution to retail brokerage firms operating in Texas. Benjamin Ramundt's leadership ensures that the company's specialized offerings in property, casualty, and other lines are effectively delivered to the Texas market. The executive drives business development efforts, fostering strong relationships with clients and partners throughout the region. By tailoring services to local market needs, Ramundt strengthens Ryan Turner Specialty's presence and impact. Benjamin Ramundt's operational oversight contributes significantly to the company's overall success as a leading wholesale distributor.

    Joseph Davis - President (Long Island)

    Joseph Davis, the President (Long Island) at Ryan Turner Specialty, directs the company's operations and strategic growth within the Long Island territory. Davis oversees the provision of specialized insurance products and services, ensuring superior execution for retail brokerage firms in the region. This leadership role focuses on developing tailored solutions for property, casualty, and professional lines, meeting the unique demands of the Long Island market. Joseph Davis cultivates key client relationships and drives business development initiatives to expand the company's reach. The executive ensures that the team delivers expert advice and efficient service, reinforcing Ryan Turner Specialty's reputation as a leading wholesale distributor. Joseph Davis's commitment to client success underpins the firm's ability to offer creative and effective insurance strategies.

    Thomas Mullins - President, Binding Authorities (Chicago)

    Thomas Mullins, the President, Binding Authorities (Chicago) at Ryan Turner Specialty, leads the binding authorities division in Chicago. Mullins oversees the strategic development and operational management of binding authority programs, ensuring efficient and effective placement of specialty insurance risks. This role is critical for providing creative solutions and superior execution to retail brokerage firms seeking specialized coverage. Thomas Mullins's expertise in binding authorities supports the company's position as a leading wholesale distributor by streamlining the underwriting and placement process. The executive manages a team dedicated to delivering exceptional service and expertise in this specialized area. By optimizing binding authority operations, Mullins enhances Ryan Turner Specialty's capacity to serve diverse client needs. Thomas Mullins drives the division's growth and profitability through strategic oversight and a commitment to excellence.
    Thomas Mullins

    Rachelle Best - President (RT ProExec)

    Rachelle Best, the President (RT ProExec) at Ryan Turner Specialty, directs the company's professional executive liability insurance practice. Best oversees the development and delivery of specialized ProExec solutions, ensuring superior execution for clients seeking coverage for professional and executive risks. This leadership position involves managing a team of experts dedicated to providing creative and comprehensive insurance products. Rachelle Best's strategic focus enhances Ryan Turner Specialty's capabilities in serving complex professional lines needs. The executive drives innovation and market penetration within the ProExec segment, reinforcing the company's role as a leading wholesale distributor. By focusing on specialized expertise, Best ensures clients receive tailored risk management strategies. Rachelle Best's leadership contributes significantly to the firm's reputation for excellence in specialty insurance.
    Rachelle Best

    Terrence McCann - President (Chicago)

    Terrence McCann, the President (Chicago) at Ryan Turner Specialty, leads the company's extensive operations within the Chicago metropolitan area. McCann oversees the strategic direction and execution of specialty insurance programs, ensuring superior service delivery to retail brokerage firms. This role involves managing a diverse portfolio of property, casualty, and professional lines, providing creative solutions tailored to regional market demands. Terrence McCann drives business development and fosters strong client relationships throughout the Chicago region. The executive ensures the team provides expert guidance and efficient placement of specialty insurance products. By focusing on local market expertise, McCann strengthens Ryan Turner Specialty's position as a leading wholesale distributor. Terrence McCann's leadership contributes to the firm's sustained growth and market impact in Chicago.
    Terrence McCann

    Claudia May - President, National Personal Lines Practice

    Claudia May, the President, National Personal Lines Practice at Ryan Turner Specialty, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for national personal lines insurance. May focuses on developing and implementing innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of retail brokerage firms in the personal lines sector. This leadership role involves overseeing a dedicated team that provides superior execution and specialized expertise. Claudia May's commitment to client success drives the growth and effectiveness of the personal lines practice. The executive ensures the practice offers creative and competitive products, reinforcing Ryan Turner Specialty's position as a leading wholesale distributor. By focusing on the nuances of personal lines insurance, May enhances the company's comprehensive service offering. Claudia May's strategic oversight contributes to the firm's overall market leadership and client satisfaction.

    Susan Brennan - President

    Susan Brennan, the President at Ryan Turner Specialty, oversees broad operational strategies and market development initiatives. Brennan focuses on enhancing the company's capabilities as a leading wholesale distributor of specialty insurance products and services. This leadership role involves driving superior execution across various divisions and ensuring the delivery of creative solutions to retail brokerage firms. Susan Brennan's strategic vision supports the company's commitment to industry leadership and client success. The executive works to foster a culture of excellence and innovation throughout the organization. By championing best practices, Brennan ensures that Ryan Turner Specialty consistently meets and exceeds client expectations. Susan Brennan's leadership is instrumental in maintaining the firm's competitive edge and expanding its market influence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ryan Turner Specialty Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ryan Turner Specialty?
    Ryan Turner Specialty is led by Brenda Austenfeld (Co-President & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Property)), along with executives such as Christopher Houska (Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Casualty Practice)) and Carol Wysocki (Chief Financial Officer & Controller).
    Who is part of Ryan Turner Specialty’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ryan Turner Specialty includes leaders such as Brenda Austenfeld (Co-President & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Property)), Christopher Houska (Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Casualty Practice)), Carol Wysocki (Chief Financial Officer & Controller) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ryan Turner Specialty have?
    Ryan Turner Specialty has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ryan Turner Specialty’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ryan Turner Specialty includes roles such as Co-President & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Property), Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (RT National Casualty Practice), Chief Financial Officer & Controller, President (Texas), President (Long Island).