Farmers Alliance Companies Announce Leadership Changes
MCPHERSON, KANSAS — Brian D. Lopata, President and Chief Executive Officer at Farmers Alliance has announced three promotions within the Executive Leadership Team, following the recent meeting of the company’s Board of Directors. According to Lopata, “I am happy to recognize these individuals for their exceptional work on behalf of Farmers Alliance, and look forward to their continued contributions in these new positions.” He added, “As we look to the future for Farmers Alliance, these changes will keep us aligned strategically and operationally, positioning us well for future success.”
Andy Edwardson has been named Executive Vice President – Chief Data & Technology Officer. Edwardson joined Farmers Alliance in 1997 in Information Technology (IT), and previously held the position of Senior Vice President – Chief Information Officer. Since the launch of the Farmers Alliance 2025 Strategic Plan, he has taken on an expanded role in the areas of technology, data science, actuarial science and project management. In recognition of these growing responsibilities, Edwardson is promoted to Executive Vice President – Chief Data & Technology Officer. He has direct responsibility for overseeing the strategic direction and execution of Information Technology, Data Analytics, Actuary, and Enterprise Project Management/Innovation.
Aaron Valentine, CPCU, CPA, is named Executive Vice President – Chief Financial & Risk Officer. Valentine joined Farmers Alliance in 2019, as Senior Vice President – Chief Insurance Officer, bringing more than 25 years of management experience with a regional mutual insurer. Following the recent retirement of Paul Taliaferro as Chief Financial Officer, Valentine is promoted to Executive Vice President – Chief Financial & Risk Officer. With this change, Valentine has direct responsibility for overseeing the strategic direction and execution of Accounting & Finance, Internal Audit, Enterprise Risk Management, Claims and Billing.
Randy Lutgen, CPCU, joins Executive Leadership Team, is named Senior Vice President – Chief Underwriting Officer. Lutgen joined Farmers Alliance in 2017, bringing many years of underwriting management experience. He previously was Vice President – Underwriting & Customer Service. As Senior Vice President – Chief Underwriting Officer, Lutgen has direct responsibility for overseeing the strategic direction and execution of Underwriting, Product & Compliance, and Customer Service & Satisfaction.
These promotions are effective immediately. The Farmers Alliance Executive Leadership Team also includes Ryan Hicks, Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer, and Jack Rader, Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing & Reinsurance Officer.