Dave Przesiek Takes the Helm at Ryan Specialty Benefits

In a significant leadership shift, Ryan Specialty Benefits has appointed Dave Przesiek as its new president and chief executive officer, effective immediately. This promotion marks a pivotal moment for the company as it navigates a challenging insurance landscape characterized by rising medical stop-loss premiums and growing complexities in the self-insurance market. Przesiek's extensive experience in the industry positions him to lead the company through these turbulent waters, leveraging his background to enhance Ryan Specialty's offerings and strategic direction.

Przesiek's ascent to the top comes after his tenure as chief revenue officer, a role he assumed following Ryan Specialty's acquisition of AccuRisk Holdings in December 2023. His predecessor, John Zern, who served as president and CEO since the division's inception, has departed to pursue other opportunities. While the company did not disclose terms of the transition, Przesiek's deep-seated expertise in self-insurance and employee benefits is expected to drive continued growth and innovation.

Przesiek's Background and Experience

With over 30 years in the self-insurance market, Przesiek's journey began with various roles in health plans and third-party administration. His career took a significant turn in 2010 when he joined Fallon Health, where he dedicated a decade to overseeing product development and commercial sales as a senior vice president. In 2020, he transitioned to AccuRisk Solutions, where he spearheaded the launch of its captive program, focusing on enhancing the medical stop-loss managing general underwriter's (MGU) alternative funding capabilities. This expertise is particularly relevant as Ryan Specialty Benefits expands its product offerings in the face of a challenging market.

• Over 30 years of experience in self-insurance.
• Former senior vice president at Fallon Health, specializing in product development.
• Instrumental in launching AccuRisk's captive program.
• Extensive knowledge of medical stop-loss and group captives.

The Growing Demand for Medical Stop-Loss Insurance

The appointment of Przesiek comes at a critical juncture for the medical stop-loss insurance market. A recent report from Segal indicated that coverage costs for medical stop-loss insurance rose an average of 12.7% in 2026, a significant increase from 9.7% the previous year. This surge in premiums is largely driven by escalating specialty drug costs and a rise in high-cost claimants, particularly affecting mid-market employers who are increasingly turning to self-funding mechanisms for their health benefits.

As employers grapple with the complexities of navigating self-funded plans, the pressure to find innovative solutions has never been greater. Ryan Specialty Benefits is well-positioned to address these challenges with a product suite that includes medical stop-loss, level-funded plans, and group captives tailored for small to mid-sized employers. This segment is rapidly evolving, and Przesiek's experience will be critical as the company seeks to expand its footprint in this competitive market.

Healthcare Captives: A Growing Trend

Healthcare captives, and particularly group medical captives, have emerged as one of the fastest-growing structures in the benefits market. Employers are increasingly looking for alternatives to traditional stop-loss arrangements, seeking to mitigate risk while controlling costs. According to a February 2026 report from the Society of Actuaries, the healthcare captive landscape is expanding, driven by the need for more flexible and cost-effective solutions.

Przesiek's previous role at AccuRisk was instrumental in building out capabilities in this area, making him uniquely qualified to lead Ryan Specialty Benefits as it enhances its offerings in healthcare captives. This focus is not only strategic but also responsive to the evolving needs of employers who are looking for customized solutions that align with their financial and operational objectives.

The Future of Ryan Specialty Benefits

As Przesiek takes the reins, the future of Ryan Specialty Benefits appears promising, albeit challenging. The rise in medical stop-loss premiums indicates a market in flux, with advisers facing increased complexities during the renewal process. This scenario presents both challenges and opportunities for Ryan Specialty, allowing the company to leverage its innovative product offerings and Przesiek's deep industry insights to better serve its clients.

Pat Ryan, executive chairman of Ryan Specialty, expressed confidence in Przesiek's ability to lead the company, noting that he has been