Guardian names new head of distribution

Guardian Life has appointed Kevin Luebbers as head of distribution, responsible for sales and distribution strategy across its individual markets businesses.

Luebbers joins Guardian from Jackson National Life, where he most recently served as head of sales. He has 25 years of industry experience spanning wirehouse, bank, independent, agency, hybrid, and registered investment advisor channels.

Reporting to Mike Perry, head of client solutions and wealth management, Luebbers will focus on integrating and scaling Guardian’s distribution model across its protection, wealth management, and retirement businesses.

The appointment comes as Guardian continues to invest in its wealth management business. Recent moves include the appointment of Nancy DeRusso as head of client solutions, the rebranding of Park Avenue Securities as Park Avenue Wealth Management, enhancements to its annuity offerings, and a partnership with Avantos focused on AI-powered financial planning.

“Kevin brings deep expertise across retirement income, annuities, and distribution strategy, along with a proven track record of building strong partnerships and driving growth across key channels. As more Americans face the challenge of turning accumulated savings into lasting financial security, Kevin’s leadership will help us make an even greater impact by expanding access to the retirement planning and protection-first, holistic solutions people need.” – Mike Perry, Head of Client Solutions and Wealth Management at Guardian.

Based on your July agency-distribution research, Guardian was active on the L&H side, with 18 agency appointments identified during the month. The appointments included Acrisure West Insurance Services, Concourse Financial Group Agency, BridgeOne Insurance Services, UNICO Group, Advocate, Build Better Benefits, and several newer agencies.