The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America has unveiled organisational and leadership changes aimed at enhancing growth objectives.  

As per the plan, the company is dividing Individual Markets business into two distinct units: Financial Protection & Retirement Solutions and Client Solutions & Wealth Management.  

This restructuring is designed to better align the company’s growth in protection solutions and wealth management. 

Erin Culek, who joined Guardian in 2020, has been chosen to lead the Financial Protection & Retirement Solutions unit, reporting to Guardian CEO and chairman Andrew McMahon. 

In her new role, Culek will be responsible for product strategy, financial protection and retirement solutions, including life, disability and annuity products.  

She will spearhead initiatives that leverage the company’s General Agency system and partnerships with third-party brokers and financial professionals. 

Mike Perry will take on the role of Client Solutions & Wealth Management leader, effective 4 August, reporting to McMahon. 

Perry, who has more than 30 years of experience in wealth, investment, and insurance product and distribution, previously served as executive vice-president and head of the global client and product group at Nuveen.  

McMahon said: “Both Erin and Mike bring extraordinary experience to our growth strategy, and I am confident they are the right leaders to enhance our ability to meet our clients’ holistic planning and protection needs.  

Michael Prestileo has been appointed to lead Enterprise Strategy & Growth Initiatives, also reporting to McMahon.  

Prestileo’s new position will involve overseeing strategy, corporate development, data and AI, Business Excellence and Sourcing teams. 

He joined Guardian in 2020 and has since served as chief commercial officer for the Group Benefits business. 

Stacey Hoin, chief human resources officer, is expanding her remit to include oversight of Corporate Impact and Workplace and Real Estate Strategy, in addition to her existing duties. Hoin, who has been with Guardian since 2021, will continue to report to McMahon. 

McMahon stated: “At the same time, I am thrilled to see our talented leaders like Stacey Hoin and Michael Prestileo taking on expanded roles, showcasing the strength of Guardian’s leadership and our commitment to fostering growth and innovation.”  

Michael Ferik, head of individual markets, will leave Guardian effective 31 August.  

McMahon added: “Michael has been pivotal to Guardian’s success over the past 16 years.”  

Earlier this month, Guardian expanded its registered index-linked annuity product, Guardian MarketPerform, to the New York market.