Why Companion?
Companion Life Insurance Company has proudly provided top-notch service to our clients since 1971. We offer group and voluntary insurance products as “companions” to medical coverage. We’re small enough to give you personalized attention, and we have the stability and resources to give you the support you may need. We value our relationships with our partners and policyholders, and we’re here to deliver a full suite of insurance coverage and products.
When you work with Companion Life, you might notice we do things a little differently. That’s because, for more than 50 years, our partners have been our top priority. We are here to serve you with a commitment to accessibility and responsiveness.
Strong relationships built on integrity and trust
Our partners, brokers, general agents and managing general underwriters have our full commitment and support.
Product flexibility and creativity
We follow best practices of the insurance industry while constantly seeking creative new ways to serve our customers’ unique needs.
A willingness to cooperate and listen for solutions
We want to hear what you need from us. We stand ready to listen and find innovative solutions that will work for you and your clients.
Accessibility to upper management
We welcome feedback and new ideas. If you have a suggestion, we encourage you to connect directly with one of our key decision makers.
Responsive, dedicated team
We know there’s nothing more important than relationships in business. We will collaborate and work alongside you as your partner.
Financial and organizational stability
We have a rock-solid foundation and a reputation for excellence built over 50 years. You can trust we have the resources you need to thrive.
Our History
Companion Life was born in July 1971 in Columbia, South Carolina. What started out as a small life insurance company with about 10 staff members now has revenues in excess of a billion dollars, sells a variety of insurance products, and continues to build upon a solid foundation of strength and stability.
In 1989 – 1990, Companion Life began to work with a network of agents and general agents across the country to sell its products nationwide. Since then, it has continued to expand its offerings to serve a wider range of customers. For 22 years running, it’s received an A+ rating for financial strength from credit rating agency AM Best Company.*
Companion Life has earned an AM Best rating of A+ (Superior)* for 22 consecutive years.
*Rating as of Dec. 18, 2023. For the latest rating, access www.ambest.com. The rating represents an independent opinion from the leading provider of insurer ratings of a company’s financial strength and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders.
Our Leadership
Andy Folsom
President
Billy Pickens
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
Michael Flock
Vice President, Chief Risk Officer
Spann Laffitte
Vice President, Head of Employee Benefits Sales
Mark Smidt
Vice President, Employer Stop Loss
Jim Swayze
Vice President, Program Business
Wendy Nesmith
Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer
Sean K. King
Assistant Vice President, IT | Chief Security Officer
Jim Helton
Vice President, Chief Actuary
Anita Recchio
Chief Product Development Officer
Paul Peter
Assistant Vice President, Underwriting Administration
Our Family of Companies
Stop Loss Divisions