Principal’s Aschenbrenner Retires, Houston Expands Role

As part of a planned leadership succession, the Principal Financial Group announced that John Aschenbrenner, president – insurance and financial services, will retire at the end of 2009 after more than 37 years with the company. 

Effective upon Aschenbrenner’s retirement, Dan Houston, president – retirement and investor services, will assume leadership of the life, health and specialty benefits businesses in addition to his current role leading the U.S. Asset Accumulation segment.  Houston’s new title will be president – retirement, insurance and financial services. 

Named to his current position in 2003, Aschenbrenner has been responsible for overall management of the company’s life, health and specialty benefits businesses as well as the distribution channels supporting those businesses.  

“John has made many valuable contributions to The Principal throughout his career. In particular, his leadership has strengthened our position as an employee benefits leader serving small- to mid-size businesses,” says Larry Zimpleman, chairman, president and chief executive officer. “We are thankful for John’s contributions to The Principal and have great confidence in the proven talent and experience of our leadership team going forward.” 

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