Working in life insurance makes you hyper-aware of life expectancy. Like many people my age who are fortunate to still have their parents with them, they’re now in their eighties and nineties, leaving a finite amount of time to enjoy their company. With that in mind, I have made the personal decision to retire from The Targeted Strategies Group to spend more time with my family while I can.

Over the last 8 years, my primary focus has been building an organization that transcends generations and provides continuity of care throughout our clients’ lives—after all, life insurance is for life. I am proud of the organization we have created and believe it is unique in the insurance industry.

My retirement is part of TTSG’s long-term succession plan. John Durland, a tenured Principal at TTSG, is excited to step into the role of CEO and is committed to maintaining the firm’s client-centric approach while fostering growth, expanding its reach, and enhancing its innovative offerings.

Furthermore, John brings 35 years of experience across insurance, corporate finance, business succession, tax planning, and leadership. And of course, John is not alone. He is well supported by strong management and a group of incredibly talented professionals.

This feels like a natural transition because I am not completely leaving; although I am stepping away from TTSG’s operations, I will remain a client. Life insurance has always been, and continues to be, a cornerstone of my personal estate and legacy planning – it’s simply too important to trust to anyone else.

The robust systems, exceptional team, and comprehensive approach we’ve built at TTSG are not dependent on any one individual – and that includes me. We have built institutional strengths that will continue serving our clients long into the future.

I step back from the role of CEO confident that our clients, trusted advisors, and partners will be well cared for. As John wrote in his Welcome Letter, 2025 marks a new chapter for Targeted Strategies Group. The future of TTSG is bright, and I am confident that under John’s leadership, the company will continue to set the standard for excellence in life insurance planning.

 

With gratitude,

Susan Kichuk