Artex Risk Solutions
Eric Eckenstahler, a former professional athlete and insurance agency owner, shares insights into his journey to becoming captive director at Artex Risk Solutions, where he manages four group captives encompassing 250 member insureds
Could you share your journey at Artex and how your previous experiences have shaped your current role?
I began my tenure at Artex in January 2021 as an assistant captive director. Through dedicated effort and internal leadership transitions, I had the opportunity to step into a captive director role within my first year. Prior to joining Artex, I owned a property and casualty insurance office for over a decade, where I was committed to ensuring unparalleled client care. This dedication resulted in multiple retention and customer service awards, as clients recognised that I consistently prioritised their needs. My background in professional sports has also instilled in me an understanding of the dedication and effort required to reach the highest levels of success. At Artex, I have adopted a similar approach by fostering a strong team environment that emphasises accountability and celebrating achievements.
What are the primary responsibilities and challenges you face as a captive director?
In my role, I oversee four group captives totaling 250 member insureds, contributing to some of Artex’s most established and impactful programmes. Collaborating with our business development team, we have identified companies nationwide that require alternative risk solutions to enhance control and stability over their insurance programmes.
Currently, the most pressing challenges we observe are within the commercial auto lines sector and issues impacting the state of California. Our team has cultivated strong partnerships with a diverse array of brokers across the US to effectively bridge the gap between control and instability for their member insureds.
How have your personal background and business experience influenced your approach to maintaining long-term client relationships while pursuing business growth?
As a small business owner for over a decade, I did not have many external influences. My primary influences have been my parents. My father served as a police officer for 32 years, and my mother, before her passing, was a school teacher.
They instilled in me the values of hard work and helping others. Those values have me committed to assisting my customers in finding solutions while delivering exceptional service.
In my current role, I apply these values by focusing on retaining long-standing accounts — some with us for over 25 years — while also driving top-line growth. This involves uniting our team's efforts to deliver best-in-class service to existing clients and actively pursuing new business opportunities.
How do you stay informed about industry trends and developments to better serve your clients?
Staying informed about industry trends and developments is crucial in providing effective solutions to our clients. I regularly engage with industry publications, attend relevant conferences, and participate in professional networks. This continuous learning enables me to anticipate market shifts and adapt our strategies to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
As someone who has rapidly advanced in the captive insurance industry, what guidance would you offer to individuals considering a career in this field?
When I began my journey in this industry three years ago, I was unfamiliar with the captive insurance space. I consider myself fortunate to have joined this field under the guidance of leaders who were approachable and receptive to inquiries, and I took that opportunity to learn from those doing it well.
The captive insurance market is expanding rapidly, with numerous companies nationwide seeking greater control and stability over their insurance programmes.
To distinguish yourself from the competition, prioritise open and transparent communication and surround yourself with a strong team. Although this sector is complex, it is poised for continued growth in the coming years, and I look forward to continued success at Artex.
How do you see yourself progressing in the captive insurance industry?
I look forward to expanding my leadership capabilities and continuing to grow professionally. I am passionate about my work and have the privilege of collaborating with an exceptional team. I eagerly anticipate the next stages of my career at Artex, with a continued commitment to setting increasingly higher goals and team-dominant priorities each year.
