Horace Mann Educators Corporation announced that it's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Dwayne D. Hallman, is on medical leave following a severe medical incident on January 29, 2017. The Horace Mann Board of Directors has named Bret A. Conklin, currently Horace Mann's Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer, as acting Chief Financial Officer. The appointment is consistent with the company's executive succession plan and is effective immediately.

Bret has served as Controller and Chief Accounting Officer for fifteen years and is an integral member of their leadership team. Mr. Conklin is a seasoned corporate finance executive, with over 30 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industry. Mr. Conklin joined the company as Senior Vice President and Controller in 2002.

Conklin previously served as Vice President of Kemper Insurance from 2000 through 2002; Vice President and Controller of Horace Mann from 1998 through 2000; and Vice President and Controller of Pekin Insurance from 1992 through 1998.