Newsroom
Pan‑American Life Kicks Off Its 70th Anniversary Celebration in Guatemala with a Visit from Its CEO
Guatemala
November 6, 2026
Estimated Reading Time: 5m
Guatemala City ‑ Pan‑American Life of Guatemala kicked off the commemoration of its 70 years of operations in the country, which it will celebrate in June 2027, with a visit from José S. Suquet, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Pan‑American Life Insurance Group (PALIG). Guatemala was the final stop on a strategic tour of the Northern Triangle, which also included Honduras and El Salvador. Accompanied by Salvador Leiva, General Manager of Pan‑American Life of Guatemala, and Alfredo Ramírez, Vice President, Regional Country Management, Suquet presented the Group’s results and its vision for the region.
“Nearly seven decades ago, Pan‑American Life came to Guatemala with a commitment to providing security and peace of mind to families and businesses. Beginning the celebration of our 70th anniversary with a visit from our CEO is a recognition of the trust Guatemalans have placed in us,” said Salvador Leiva.
A Record‑Breaking 2025 for the Group
During his visit, Suquet shared the company’s 2025 results, a record year in which PALIG delivered solid financial performance. Total premiums reached an all‑time high of USD 1.86 billion, representing 8% growth, while revenue reached USD 1.56 billion, up 6% from 2024. Net income was USD 110 million, total assets grew to USD 7.5 billion, and GAAP equity increased 15% to USD 1.4 billion.
“A record year is the result of a consistent, long‑term strategy: disciplined growth, prudent management, and an unwavering commitment to our clients, brokers, and employees. Central America is a key region for our future, and we will continue investing to provide protection and well‑being to our clients at every stage of life,” said José S. Suquet, Chairman of the Board and CEO.
With a 115‑year history, PALIG operates in 22 countries across the Americas, protects more than 7.3 million lives, and has more than 2,200 employees.
This performance is supported by solid growth in Latin America and the Caribbean, driven by the Mass Marketing and Employee Benefits segments, expansion of the broker network, and momentum in the small and medium‑sized business segment. In 2025, the Group completed more than 45 modernization initiatives, and its priorities for 2026 are to expand its market reach, invest in digital transformation, and strengthen its distribution channels.
“Protecting employees has become a strategic priority for companies across the region. At Pan‑American Life, we offer Employee Benefits solutions that integrate protection, prevention, and a simpler digital experience for employers and insureds,” said Alfredo Ramírez.
Approaching 70 Years in Guatemala
With nearly seven decades in the country, Pan‑American Life of Guatemala is one of the market’s longest‑established insurers and ranks number one in Individual Life, with a 29% market share. It also ranks fourth in assets and sixth in financial results. As of the end of June 2026, the company protects more than 164,600 lives, and more than 1,007 companies entrust it with protecting their employees.
Its financial strength is further demonstrated by 12 consecutive years with an “AAA” rating, with a stable outlook, from Fitch Ratings, and a “GT AAA” rating from Pacific Credit Ratings.
In 2025, the company recorded growth in insurance for small and medium‑sized businesses, Group Personal Accident, Individual Health, and Major Medical Expense insurance. It also offers Pan‑American Private Client, a portfolio of international medical insurance products with coverage of up to USD 5 million, subject to the terms of each policy contract.
A Legacy and Leadership Transition
Pan‑American Life’s history in Guatemala is closely linked to Salvador Leiva’s career. After more than 35 years with the company, he will retire on March 31, 2027. Since joining in 1991, he has held positions of increasing responsibility in Group Insurance, Marketing, and regional leadership, and has led the company’s operations in Guatemala since February 2011. Under his leadership, the company strengthened its position in the market and helped develop generations of professionals.He also served as President of the Guatemalan Association of Insurance Institutions (AGIS) from 2014 to 2015 and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Guatemalan‑American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) from 2022 to 2023.
Effective April 1, 2027, César Fernández will assume the role of General Manager of Pan‑American Life of Guatemala. With a decade of experience at the company, he has served as Vice President of International Country Operations since 2024. Previously, he was Operations Manager in Costa Rica and Guatemala, where he was a member of the country’s leadership team. Over the coming months, Leiva and Fernández will work closely together on an orderly transition to ensure continuity of service for clients, brokers, and employees.
“Salvador has left a profound mark on our people, our clients, and our culture, and we thank him for more than three decades of service. With his experience and knowledge of the region, César is well prepared to lead the next chapter of growth in Guatemala,” said José S. Suquet.
Throughout 2027, Pan‑American Life of Guatemala will celebrate its anniversary with a variety of activities involving clients, brokers, employees, and the community. Additional details will be announced throughout the year.
ABOUT PAN‑AMERICAN LIFE INSURANCE GROUP (PALIG)
Pan‑American Life Insurance Group (PALIG) is a leading provider of life, accident, and health insurance, serving more than 7.3 million customers across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Founded in 1911 and headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, PALIG operates through over 30 member companies and 2,200 employees with a presence in 22 countries. Backed by a Financial Strength Rating of A (Strong) from Fitch Ratings and A (Excellent) from AM Best, PALIG offers top‑rated individual and group insurance products, along with employee benefits designed to support lifelong well‑being. Guided by a purpose — to be there when people need us most — PALIG is committed to delivering both financial protection and benefits solutions. Learn more about how they are people you can trust for life at palig.com.