It is with tremendous gratitude and deep respect for her service that I announce the retirement of my dear friend Pam Blalock on July 8. With 44 years in the industry, the last ten of which has been working with us at National Life, she is a trendsetting leader who has built one of the most successful career channels in the industry.
As the Senior Vice President for Affiliated Distribution, Pam has led the affiliated channel to record-setting growth. Over the course of the past decade Pam has helped to develop a highly motivated field force and the close-knit home office team who will continue to promote and develop growth in the affiliated channel.
I did not have to look far to find a worthy successor and have asked Rebecca Dunne to lead Affiliated Distribution reporting directly to me. Rebecca joined us six years ago as a Vice President for Affiliated Distribution and has helped to foster the growth of some of the channel’s largest and most productive agencies, develop new market opportunities, and mentor and guide agency strategy and leadership. She is a seasoned professional and dynamic leader with deep roots in the industry.
Frank Lucia will continue to play a more prominent leadership role doing what he loves most: focusing on field development and opportunities where he has delivered outstanding results—where his passion lies. Frank will report to Rebecca.
Kristin Cook will join Affiliated Distribution and become Frank’s counterpart as Vice President and Regional Development Officer. Kristin has been with National Life Group for 18 years and has held several leadership roles of increasing responsibility, most recently as our Chief Underwriter. Her transition will be effective in September to allow for a smooth transition.
Bill Whitsell, Head of Business Acquisition and Executive Chief Underwriter, will assume Kristin’s direct reports upon her transition, including Kris Chaney (AVP Underwriting), Lisa Papazian (Medical Director), Katie Schannen (AVP New Business) and Chris Weber (Deputy Chief Underwriter).
In addition, Erika George will join CIG leadership from L&A Solutions and assume responsibility for the Underwriting Strategies Team (automation, R&D, audit, training). Erika brings with her over 16 years of experience as an actuary working within products, marketing, and leadership. Colin Clifford will assume responsibility for Illustrations, Contract Draft & Filing Team.
We will celebrate Pam’s many contributions in the coming weeks, and you will hear more from her as she reflects on her long career in the industry. We will miss seeing her on campus and in agencies across the country. Pam Blalock is what most of us here at National Life aspire to be: a servant leader who is accomplished, curious, thoughtful, brave, a mentor to many, and a friend to all.
Please join me in congratulating Pam on her upcoming retirement and for her many contributions over the years.
