Building Momentum: Insights from First Acceptance's Leaders Shaping Our Growth

First Acceptance Insurance began an exciting transformation in December 2023 with the sale of its retail stores. This pivotal decision has paved the way for a more focused and prosperous future—one that we at First Acceptance Insurance are embracing with optimism. Reflecting on the progress made in 2024, President and CEO Ken Russell highlights the strength of our cohesive executive team as the driving force behind our evolution and continued success.

Ken Russell’s journey to leading First Acceptance is as remarkable as the company’s recent growth. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades at KPMG, Ken served as a senior partner in both the U.S. and Germany, honing his expertise in financial services, particularly banking and investment banking. His ability to manage significant accounts and tackle complex challenges set the stage for his leadership at our company.

After retiring in 2006, Ken transitioned to coaching young professionals, a role that brought him to the attention of Gerald Ford, the controlling owner of First Acceptance Insurance. Recognizing Ken’s leadership skills, Mr. Ford invited him to join us during a tumultuous period. "When I arrived, morale was low, and the business was struggling. My priority was to rebuild trust and unity among the team, and within 18 months, we turned things around," Ken shares.

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of our success. "The cohesiveness of our executive team has been a game-changer. They hold each other accountable, collaborate effectively, and share a unified vision for the company. That’s why I’m so optimistic about our future. With a flexible, nimble business model and a renewed focus on innovation, we’re poised to reach our highest premium levels in company history," Ken emphasizes.

This shared vision is complemented by a commitment to innovation and adaptability. Chief Operating Officer Douglas Jensen underscores how our new model allows for greater agility in a competitive market. "Our new model allows us to move more quickly and adapt to the changing conditions in the market. I think that's key to our long-term success. The most important part is we have the people to make it happen, and that's what's exciting.?," Doug notes. Chief Insurance Operations Officer Anthony Delaney adds, "Our goal is to give customers more control and options when it comes to their insurance coverage… We're focused on being innovative, thinking outside the box, and truly meeting the needs of our customers."

As we grow, our leaders remain committed to sustainable and responsible progress. Chief Financial Officer Brian Dickman reflects, "It’s all about protecting what we’ve built while continuing to grow. The insurance industry is cyclical, so staying vigilant and proactive is essential. I’m excited about maintaining our momentum and ensuring our success for years to come." Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer Kathy Leonetti, CFA, CAIA reinforces this focus on stakeholder value: "At First Acceptance, we’re committed to delivering value to all our stakeholders—customers, employees, and stockholders alike. When we align our efforts and stay customer-focused, the results are extraordinary."

Sales and customer outreach have also seen significant strides. Senior Vice President of Revenue Operations Dusty Gray shares his enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead: "Even with the amount of growth we've experienced the last few years, we've barely scratched the surface on our distribution. We have partners reaching out to us because they hear about us from their competition and that's an exciting thing to be a part of."

This momentum resonates deeply with those who have been part of our company’s journey for years. Executive Vice President and General Counsel Sarannah McMurtry , with nearly two decades of tenure, reflects on our evolution: "The opportunities ahead are endless. We have an amazing group of leaders with ideas that translate into real action and productivity. I’ve never been more excited about our future. It’s a great time to be here." Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Burley Nelson, M.A.,SPHR adds, “Having been with the company for nearly 10 years, I’ve witnessed an evolution that’s truly remarkable. The transformation and growth we’ve experienced have been nothing short of epic, and I’m so proud to have been a part of it."

From our roots as a single retail location in 1969 to our current focus on innovation and customer-centric policies, First Acceptance Insurance has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of our customers. As we step into 2025, the focus remains on innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Ken Russell emphasizes that the journey to the top is just as important as staying there: "We’re striving to be not just best in class but better than the best. That’s the mindset driving our team forward."

The road ahead is bright for First Acceptance, with a clear strategy, a talented team at every level, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we’re not just building momentum—we’re shaping the future of our company and the industry.