Foresters Financial Names Tom Ross as Chief Distribution Officer to Enhance U.S. Annuity Sales
Foresters Financial Welcomes Tom Ross as Chief Distribution Officer
In a strategic move to bolster its U.S. annuity market, Foresters Financial has appointed Tom Ross as the Chief Distribution Officer for U.S. Annuity Sales, a change that will take effect from October 12, 2026. This newly established role is pivotal as the company prepares for the launch of a Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) product in 2027, which aims to provide consumers with long-term financial security.
A Trusted Leader in Distribution Strategy
Tom Ross comes to Foresters Financial with a wealth of experience in the financial services industry, accumulating 16 years of expertise that positions him as a trusted leader in the field. Prior to this appointment, Ross held the position of National Distribution Vice President at FG, where he successfully led wholesaling and National Account teams focused on agent engagement and support. His extensive background has equipped him with a robust understanding of the annuity market, making him an invaluable addition to the Foresters team.
In his new role, Ross will be instrumental in shaping and executing the U.S. annuity sales strategy, aiming to expand the distribution network significantly. He will collaborate closely with various teams within Foresters to ensure the MYGA product is effectively brought to market and poised for long-term success.
Commitment to Member Welfare
Andrea Frossard, the Chief Commercial Officer at Foresters Financial, expressed confidence in Ross's ability to enhance the company’s distribution efforts. "People not only desire to protect their loved ones; they want assurance that their savings will be available when they retire," she stated. The introduction of the MYGA represents a crucial step in providing that certainty. Frossard noted Ross’s trustworthiness and diligence in building relationships with distribution partners, emphasizing the kind of annuity business Foresters aims to cultivate in the U.S.
Ross himself remarked on the alignment of his personal values with the mission of Foresters Financial, saying, "What attracted me to this position was the fundamental purpose of the organization. Foresters exists to take care of its members and their communities, which resonates with the distributors I work alongside and the clients they serve. My career has been dedicated to ensuring the success of distribution channels, and now I have the opportunity to pioneer a new initiative with them."
A Balanced Life Beyond Work
Outside of his professional commitments, Ross resides in Hugo, Minnesota with his family. He enjoys an active lifestyle, often engaging in fishing and running, which reflects his commitment to balance both work and personal wellness.
About Foresters Financial
For over 150 years, Foresters Financial has been committed to helping families build and protect their financial futures. As a purpose-driven organization, it goes beyond traditional financial services, empowering its members to make a positive impact in their communities through various initiatives. These include life insurance offerings in the U.S. and Canada and life insurance and savings solutions in the UK.
Throughout its storied history, Foresters has championed causes that matter to its members, reinforcing its image as a community builder. The organization focuses on sustainability, social responsibility, and environmental consciousness, which guide its purpose-driven approach to delivering value and lifelong benefits to its members.
The commitment to social good reflects in initiatives such as Foresters Care™ grants that foster community engagement and Competitive Scholarships aimed at nurturing future leaders. Foresters Financial operates as The Independent Order of Foresters, recognized for its commitment to member welfare and financial strength, receiving an "A" (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best for 25 consecutive years.
As Tom Ross steps into his new role at Foresters Financial, all eyes will be on the forthcoming MYGA and how the organization continues to adapt and grow in the evolving financial landscape.