Profile
“Being true to who we are is key; we are purely a referral-based business. There is zero marketing or advertising”
Adam Rakowski,
Ortus Financial
In January 2024, Ryan Armijo was promoted to president of Amwins’ underwriting division, a role in which he has continued to drive the division’s impressive growth. Under his leadership, Amwins Underwriting has expanded significantly, now offering over 120 in-house programs and placing more than $3.6 billion in premium. With a team of more than 300 underwriters across 40 locations, the division has maintained its upward trajectory in the marketplace.
Armijo oversees the national MGA platform’s strategy, focusing on specialized underwriting programs designed to meet the unique needs of various industries. By leveraging niche expertise, he helps carriers, retailers, and wholesalers grow their businesses. Under his direction, Amwins Underwriting successfully renewed its PA-1 rating from AM Best, solidifying its position as the first delegated underwriting authority enterprise to achieve this prestigious score from the industry’s leading rating agency.
4725 Piedmont Row Dr, Suite 600, Charlotte, NC 28210
704 749 2700
ryan.armijo@amwins.com
linkedin.com/in/ryanarmijo
amwins.com
Ryan Armijo
President
Amwins Underwriting
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
Profile
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
“You can’t control the outcome, but you can always control what version of you turns up every day”
Adam Rakowski,
Ortus Financial
2015–2017
2017–2018
2018–2020
2020–2024
2024–present
Vice President, Business Development at Hamilton USA: built product and worked with underwriting partners
2015–
2017
Vice President, Access Division at Amwins: built out proprietary products, led underwriting data initiatives, and managed strategic carrier relationships
2017–
2018
Senior Vice President at Amwins Underwriting: managed underwriting programs, enhanced underwriting performance, and drove value for Amwins’ clients
2018–
2020
Chief Operating Officer at Amwins Underwriting: helped scale division from 11 operating companies to more than 20 prior to assuming president role
2020–
2024
President, Underwriting Division at Amwins: manages the division consisting of 20 operating companies and over 120 unique underwriting programs
2024–
present
Milestones
Milestones
ELITE WOMEN 2024 JUDGE
overseeing and managing relationships with retail brokers
developing and implementing strategies to optimize broker operations
collaborating with internal teams to streamline processes and improve service delivery to brokers
analyzing market trends to identify opportunities for growth and improvement
monitoring performance metrics to track the success of broker operations
One of the biggest challenges she faces is balancing the need to grow and optimize broker relationships with the often-complex demands of the construction insurance industry. Brokers can have varying levels of familiarity with Astrus’s offerings, and it can be challenging to bring them up to speed while meeting their unique needs. To address this, Beck focuses on proactive communication and continuous education.
“I collaborate closely with internal Astrus teams to create streamlined, transparent processes that reduce friction in broker interactions,” she says. “I regularly review performance metrics and market trends to adapt strategies in real time, ensuring that brokers have the most relevant tools and information at their disposal.”
This approach not only strengthens broker relationships but also positions Astrus to capture growth opportunities efficiently.
A proud alumna of the University of Georgia’s (UGA) Terry College of Business with a degree in Risk Management, Beck brings 30 years of experience to her career. She began her journey with Sedgwick James after graduating from UGA, then advanced through roles at Aon and Marsh before joining USI Insurance Services in 2018. In 2024, she transitioned from USI to her current role at Astrus.
Her biggest professional achievement has been establishing herself as a female leader in the male-dominated insurance industry.
“Over the years, I’ve been honored to receive recognition from several respected organizations for my commitment to mentoring young professionals, particularly women, who aspire to enter this field,” she reveals. “This is especially meaningful to me because supporting the next generation, by helping them navigate challenges and fostering their confidence, aligns deeply with my passion for creating spaces for them.”
Over the past 12 months, the insurance industry has been characterized by a need for agility and innovation to address economic pressures, evolving risks and changing customer expectations. Insurers are adapting by embracing technology and focusing on customer-centric solutions to navigate these complexities.
“With the industry facing unprecedented challenges, I’ve made it a priority to foster collaboration and openness to innovative solutions. I’ve worked to encourage transparency and proactive communication with brokers and clients alike, ensuring they feel equipped to tackle emerging risks ensuring I help shape a more resilient, responsive industry. I remain committed to leaving a positive, lasting impact on those I work with and the industry,” she says.
This motivation comes from Beck’s deep love for the work she does every day with a commitment to modeling the qualities of a true servant leader.
She explains, “I believe in showing up each day, striving to be even one percent better than the day before. I’m mindful that others are watching, and I want to set an example by being the best version of myself, not only for my family but also for my colleagues and business partners. This mindset drives me to maintain high standards and bring genuine dedication to everything I do.”
Outside of insurance, Beck is a board member of the Los Angeles Blind Children’s Center, Peloton for Business Advisory Board, Delta Gamma, and her alma mater’s Terry Dean’s Advisory Council and The Terry College Emeritus Alumni Board.