Our Team

John L Smith developed a knack for sales at a very young age.  At the tender age of 10 John started selling scented candles door to door. He won second prize a (Timex watch). He’d found his first love. Although awkward he knew being a salesman was in his blood.

John Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication from Jones International University and studied Organizational Psychology Master’s Program from Western Advance Colleges.  He served 12 years active duty in the United States Army where he earned the rank of a senior Non-Commission Officer, 22 years of services total.  He has trained and mentored hundreds of soldiers under his command as platoon Sgt. He is also a decorated war veteran.  After the military he worked as a sales agent for Art van stores and was quickly elevated to sales manager and director of training.

John Smith joined New York Life Insurance company in October 2017, after 12 years of industry experience with a Fortune 500 company called Citigroup the parent company of Primerica Financial services. During his tenure with Primerica, John and his Partners operated three satellite offices in three different states. John was regionally recognized as one of the top regional recruiting managers of 2007 and 2008.

In early 2023 John became the Market Director of Grand Rapids in Michigan for Thrivent Financial. In 2024 Mr. Smith returned to New York Life as part of the executive team and Partner.   

John lives with his wife and business partner of 35 years, Jeri A Smith. Together they have raised 4 Children: Jawhan, Devaughn, Desire, and Dominique.

 John’s Mission Statement:

“Serve with humility and faith. While mentoring a new generation of professional sale leaders.”

Hank is a Partner with the Michigan General Office of New York Life, where he focuses on recruiting and developing financial professionals and helping them build successful practices.

Hank began his insurance career in 1998 and brings more than 25 years of industry and leadership experience. Throughout his career, he has held leadership roles in sales, strategic initiatives, and multi-state operations, with a strong focus on developing people, building successful teams, and driving business growth.

Hank earned his MBA from Wayne State University and his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University. He and his wife, Anne, live in East Grand Rapids, MI, and have two sons who attend Michigan State University.

Jeff is an insurance and financial services leader with over 20 years of experience in recruiting, coaching, business development, and agency leadership. As an Associate Partner with New York Life, Jeff is passionate about helping individuals build rewarding careers and successful businesses while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Throughout his insurance and financial services career, Jeff has served as an Associate Partner, District Manager, Agency Business Consultant and Agency Owner, gaining valuable experience in developing professionals and growing businesses.

Prior to financial services, Jeff worked as an engineer in various roles including project management, process optimization, facilities management, and environmental compliance. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan and an Associate of Science degree from Grand Rapids Community College.

Tony is an Associate Partner with New York Life, bringing a diverse background in insurance, financial services, business development, and organizational leadership. Throughout his career, he has been driven by a passion for building meaningful relationships, solving complex challenges, and helping others achieve their personal and professional goals.

Prior to joining New York Life, Tony built extensive experience with Farmers Insurance, collaborating with agency owners and business leaders to strengthen operations, improve performance, and implement strategies for long-term success. His work in business consulting, relationship management, and technology implementation helped shape his collaborative leadership style and reinforced his belief that investing in people is fundamental to lasting success.

Today, Tony applies that experience to recruiting, mentoring, and developing financial professionals at New York Life. He is passionate about helping individuals discover their strengths, embrace new opportunities, and build rewarding careers that make a meaningful difference in their communities.

Tony earned his Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, with a concentration in E-Business, from Davenport University and his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Western Michigan University. A strong advocate for lifelong learning, he believes that curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to continued education are essential to personal and professional growth. He strives to lead by example, encouraging others to continually expand their knowledge and pursue their potential.

A Grand Rapids native, Tony has called the greater Lansing area home for the past decade, where he lives with his husband and son. He values family, community, and the opportunity to make a positive impact through the relationships he builds.

Craig started his career in Financial Services with New York Life in 2007. After running his own practice for 6 years, he transitioned into management. Craig is the Director of Development in the Michigan General Office and has earned his Chartered Financial Consultant^®, Chartered Life Underwriter^®, Retirement Income Certified Professional^®, Wealth Management Certified Professional^®, Certified Leadership Fellow^®, and Financial Service Certified Professional^® designations from the American College. Craig is a graduate of Aquinas College where he studied Business. Craig is married to his wife Kayla and has two children, Daniel and Lenora.

Eric is a Senior Associate, Director of Agency Standards and provides field operations and supervision support to the Michigan based field offices of New York Life. Eric was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan and has worked in finance for the past 12 years including roles in both supervision and wealth management. Eric is a graduate of Aquinas College with a focus in business administration. He is a veteran of the United States Army, including one tour of duty in Baghdad, Iraq. Eric enjoys spending time with his wife, Lisa, traveling the world, and working on his motorcycle.