Knighthead Appoints Three Sales Professionals to Advance Distribution Team

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Knighthead Life, a global provider of retirement solutions, has hired three industry veterans to execute the firm’s distribution and growth strategies. The team will be led by Chief Distribution Officer, Michael Brandriet, who joined Knighthead Life in the fourth quarter of last year.

Prior to joining Knighthead Life, Brandriet served as Chief Distribution Officer of American Equity where he oversaw all facets of the company’s distribution strategy. Under his direction, the company grew significantly and expanded distribution strategies across the enterprise. He brings more than 30 years of experience in annuity distribution.

“We could not have chosen a better leader than Mike to oversee Knighthead Life’s distribution efforts,” said Edward Massaro, Chief Executive Officer of Knighthead Life. “Mike brings over three decades of experience to the firm and has an impressive track record of developing key relationships, advocating on behalf of agents and clients, and providing unmatched client service. His contributions have already been invaluable, and we’re excited to see the impact he will have moving forward.”

Brandriet has added three additional professionals to his team - Chad Virgin, Matthew R. Johnson and Dylan Taylor. Virgin, who joins from Allianz Life, and Johnson, from American Equity, will be focused on strategic partnerships, innovative marketing strategies, and market expansion in the annuity space. Taylor, formerly at Oceanview Life and Annuity Company, will lead internal sales efforts, offering product support to distribution partners and innovating current sales processes and systems to enable more efficient engagement with partners and agents.

“Chad, Matt and Dylan bring to Knighthead a deep understanding of the life and annuity industries, coupled with unique skillsets and a passion for helping agents solve for the needs of their clients,” Brandriet said. “Their contributions to the firm will have an immense impact as we seek to elevate our presence in the competitive landscape and improve efficiencies in engaging with partners and agents. We’re incredibly fortunate to have them join the team.”

For further details on Knighthead Life, please visit www.knightheadlife.com.

About Knighthead Life

Knighthead Life is an insurance company centered on providing sound retirement solutions. With a focus on innovation, ease of doing business, and partnership, Knighthead Life plans to develop competitive products and efficient processes that serve our partners seamlessly.