J. Ridley Howard

J. RIDLEY HOWARD is Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive
Officer of Cotton States Insurance Group of Companies that includes
Cotton States Mutual Insurance Company, Cotton States Life Insurance
Company, Shield Insurance Company and Cotton States Investment Company.
Prior to his current position, Mr. Howard was President and Chief
Executive Officer of the Group. He entered commercial real estate
business in Atlanta in 1970. Remained in business as a broker until
1978. Became Director of Economic Development and General Manager of
Dekalb Chamber of Commerce, 1978-1981. Joined Cotton States in 1981 as
Director of Special Projects. Later served as: Director of Corporate
Affairs; Director of Agencies; Vice President – Director of Agencies;
Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Became President and
CEO and member of Executive Committee of Board of Directors in January
of 1989. Elected Chairman of the Board effective January 1, 1998. Mr.
Howard graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree
in Political Science, 1969. He is married and has two children. Sector ‘
Life Insurance