Affordable American Insurance (AAI) is pleased to announce that Ross Haskett has joined the organization as Vice President of Sales. This strategic hire strengthens AAI’s national sales presence and supports the network’s mission to help independent agents build and grow profitable agencies with real long term support.
With a decade of experience focused on the insurance industry, Ross brings a unique blend of sales leadership, agency financing expertise, and deep familiarity with the challenges independent agents face every day.
Who is Ross Haskett
Ross brings more than ten years of specialized experience in insurance industry lending and agency financing, including senior leadership roles at Westfield Bank and Live Oak Banking Company. Throughout his career, he has worked with independent insurance agents across the country, helping them secure capital and structure deals that support sustainable growth.
His background includes:
SBA and conventional financing for agency acquisitions
Perpetuation planning and partner buy ins and buy outs
Refinancing and cash flow optimization
Commercial real estate purchases for growing agencies
Working capital solutions that help agents invest in people, technology, and marketing
Ross has also partnered closely with insurance networks to support their members through tailored financial solutions, giving him a front row view into what top performing independent agencies need at every stage of their development.
What Ross Will Lead at AAI
In his role as Vice President of Sales, Ross will focus on aligning growth, partnership quality, and long term profitability for both AAI and its agency partners. Specifically, he will focus on:
Increasing AAI’s footprint through profitable growth
Identifying and partnering with the right independent agencies to expand the network strategically
Targeting high potential agency partners and leveraging his agency financing expertise to accelerate sustainable growth, improve market share, and support long term profitability
This role is designed to deepen AAI’s ability to support agents who are ready to grow, whether they are opening their first independent agency or scaling an existing operation.
“Ross understands what it takes for independent agents to grow through every stage of the agency lifecycle,” said Chris Fernandez, CEO of Affordable American Insurance. “His experience in financing and his passion for the independent channel align perfectly with our commitment to help agents own their future and build something lasting.”
Why This Matters for Independent Agents
For more than 20 years, AAI has helped hundreds of agents break free from captive restrictions and build thriving independent agencies with real ownership and control. The network’s proven system empowers agents to:
Write more of the right business
Increase revenue and agency value
Access markets, technology, and ongoing coaching that would be difficult to secure alone
Ross’s background in agency lending and deal structure adds another layer of strength to this model. By combining strategic recruiting, smart financing conversations, and a focus on profitable growth, AAI can better support:
Captive agents who are ready to go independent and need a clear path
Existing independent agency owners who want to scale through acquisitions, new locations, or expanded production
Growth minded producers and sales leaders who are ready to build something of their own
At AAI, agents are the drivers of their own agencies. The network acts as the pit crew, providing the tools, strategy, and support needed to compete at a higher level. Ross’s role will help more agents step into that driver’s seat with confidence.
Looking Ahead
As AAI continues to expand its national footprint, Ross will play a central part in building relationships with high potential agency partners, opening new opportunities, and making sure that growth is always strategic and sustainable.
We are excited to welcome Ross to the AAI team and look forward to the impact his leadership will have on our agents and the independent channel as a whole.
