Atlanta Life Financial Group chief executive officer Ronald Brown died Tuesday of complications following surgery, his firm announced. He was 55.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our friend and colleague, Ron Brown” said chairman of the board William Clement. “The entire Atlanta Life Financial Group family mourns this tragic loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
The company’s board has announced that Clement will serve as interim president and CEO.
Brown became CEO in 2004 and helped spearhead Atlanta Life’s acquisition of Jackson Securities in 2007. The move put the company, which is more than 100 years old, in the municipal bond industry. Principals say the synergy between the two firms, both founded by African-Americans, made the merger a natural fit.
Jackson Securities, which was founded by the late Maynard Jackson, retained its name for branding purposes.
