Illinois

Christian came to Ironpeak from a top 20 independent agency in the Chicago area where he was an Assistant Vice President and producer. Prior to becoming an AVP, Christian focused on marketing and account management. Christian uses his skills and experience to help agencies optimize their carrier appointments and maximize agency revenues. Christian handles Illinois and Wisconsin in his regional manager role.

Rich Laffoon became Ironpeak's regional manager in Indiana in August of 2023. Most recently, Rich was a field construction underwriter for Nationwide Insurance in Indiana and the Chicagoland area. Before his role at Nationwide, Rich held underwriting and distribution roles at Amerisure, Travelers, Zurich and Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance. Rich has a degree in Insurance and Risk Management from Indiana State University and an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Hired in 1985 as the first Ironpeak regional manager, Matt has been instrumental in expanding Ironpeak beyond its home state of New York. Matt’s unique position straddling the field and home office worlds makes him an invaluable resource to both. Matt serves as an executive officer and leads four regions - Ironpeak Northeast, Ironpeak Mid-Atlantic Group, Ironpeak Midwest, and Ironpeak South – as a managing partner. Matt oversees carrier partner relationships and field operations. Innovation and commitment to the independent agency channel have defined Matt’s insurance career. Creator of the PartnerPlan®, Matt constantly pushes Ironpeak to find new ways to reward highly partnered Member Agencies. Contact Matt at (804) 370-2862 or mward@ironpeak.com.

Ken’s leadership positions in underwriting and sales with Nationwide, Fireman’s Fund, Liberty Mutual, and Encompass were perfect preparation for his new role as Regional Vice President supporting our Members and carrier partners in Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. In addition, he is working to develop the Northwest states for Ironpeak, with an initial focus on Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana and the Dakotas. Contact Ken at: (224) 340-5082 or kkoehler@ironpeak.com.