Horace Mann appoints Ryan Greenier as Chief Financial Officer as Bret Conklin announces retirement

Horace Mann Educators, a financial services company focused on the needs of educators, has appointed Ryan Greenier as its new Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective 1st October 2024. 

Greenier, who has held several leadership roles at the company, will succeed current CFO Bret Conklin, who plans to retire in 2025 after over two decades with the organisation. Conklin will remain through next year to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Marita Zuraitis, President and CEO of Horace Mann, expressed her gratitude for Conklin's contributions, “Bret has had a distinguished career and has been an integral member of the Horace Mann executive team. I am personally grateful for his counsel and leadership over the years and have a deep appreciation for his commitment to lead our Finance transformation throughout 2025.”

Greenier’s role and experience

Greenier, who has been with Horace Mann since 2018, has served in multiple roles, including Deputy CFO, Chief Investment Officer, and Senior Vice President of Finance. His work has included managing the company’s investment portfolio, optimising its balance sheet, and maintaining strong relationships with investors and rating agencies. Greenier will now join the executive officer team and report directly to Zuraitis.

“Ryan brings strong financial experience and expertise to the CFO role and will serve us well as we continue to deliver distinctive service to our customers, shareholders, agents and employees. Since joining the company, he has optimised our investment portfolio and balance sheet, played a critical role in the success of key transformational transactions, all while maintaining strong relationships with investors and rating agencies,” Zuraitis added.

Before joining Horace Mann, Greenier worked at The Hartford and Deloitte, focusing on investor relations and investments. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Pace University and an MBA in finance from the University of Connecticut.

Changes in business operations leadership

In addition to Greenier’s appointment, Horace Mann’s Chief Operating Officer, Stephen McAnena, who joined in May 2023, will take on responsibility for all business operations, including the Worksite division. 

This change means all business operations now fall under McAnena’s leadership. Together with Zuraitis, McAnena is focused on delivering on the company’s strategic vision of providing tailored financial services to educators.

“We’re being very thoughtful with our executive succession planning to ensure stability for the company as we continue to execute our growth strategy. The executive officers and I are steadfast in our mission to help educators and others who serve their communities protect what they have today and prepare for a successful tomorrow.” said Zuraitis.