Ameritas Leadership Announcement

Today Ameritas announced plans for a leadership transition early next year. 

Effective Jan. 2, 2024, President and Chief Executive Officer Bill Lester will retire. The Ameritas Board of Directors has selected Bob Jurgensmeier to succeed Bill as CEO. In addition, Bob and the board have named Sue Wilkinson as president and chief operating officer of Ameritas, also effective Jan. 2, 2024.

Bob currently serves as executive vice president, independent distribution and investments. Sue currently serves as executive vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer.

Bob and Sue are terrific choices, Bill said, noting that Ameritas is fortunate to have this extremely capable talent within our organization, ready to successfully take on additional leadership responsibilities. Bill congratulated them and wished them all the best.

Ryan Beasley, executive vice president, individual division, also will expand his leadership responsibilities to include independent distribution.

Ryan is a skilled leader who has done excellent work developing our wealth management strategy, Bill said. Under Ryan’s leadership, the individual distribution network has expanded significantly and growth in the individual division has been among the best in the industry. Bill said we look forward to him continuing that record of achievement in the future.

In a news release, board Chair Tonn Ostergard recognized Bill’s 40-year legacy of commitment to Ameritas and congratulated him on his retirement. Bill praised Ameritas associates and distribution colleagues for their accomplishments.

Ameritas is strong and stable, and now is a good time to take this step, Bill said of the coming transition. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the people I’ve come to know with this remarkable company.”