Eric Thomes

As chief distribution officer of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life®), Eric Thomes leads the overall direction of sales and distribution across all business lines. He is responsible for maximizing distribution through strategic relationships in the independent, wirehouse, and bank channels, as well as owned and independent insurance field marketing offices.

Thomes has been with the company since 1995. He has held several leadership roles with the company, including VP of Sales for the Long Term Care Division, VP of Sales for the Southeast region, SVP of Strategic Accounts, and most recently, the SVP of FMO Distribution. Prior to joining Allianz Life, he was an independent insurance agent.

Thomes earned his BA in business management at St. John’s University in Minnesota. He is currently on the Allianz Life Field Advisory Board, the board of directors for the LIMRA-LOMA Secure Retirement Institute, and is also a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. Thomes also serves on the board of the Alzheimer’s Association, MN-ND. Previously, Thomes served as chair of the board of directors for the National Associate for Fixed Annuities. He has also represented Allianz Life on the Allianz SE Global Diversity and Inclusion Council, and served as the executive sponsor for the Allianz Life Employee Resource Group that supports LGBT employees. Thomes holds a State of Minnesota Life, Accident & Health Insurance license, and FINRA Series 6, 7, 24, and 26 securities registrations.