Executive Team | Affordable American Insurance

Chris Fernandez

CEO & President

“I’m dedicated to all of our agents, to make sure they have the best tools available so that they can make fast better decisions and become better business owners. ”

My passion lies in building great teams and expanding companies while fostering a culture of support and growth. I started my career as an entry level IT technician and worked my way up to lead a company that helps small business owners and entrepreneurs thrive.

I believe that small businesses are the backbone of America, and there's nothing more rewarding than helping someone take their first step toward independence. Being part of that journey whether it's helping them launch their agency or scale it is what fuels me every day. At AAI, we’re not just in the business of insurance; we’re in the business of empowering people. Insurance is ultimately about protection and peace of mind, and I’m proud to lead a company that helps people and businesses protect what matters most.

Over the years, I’ve led AAI through key transitions and milestones from expanding our footprint across 27+ states to acquiring agencies and reaching new heights in revenue and premium growth.

What drives me is creating an environment where people love to work and can do their best work. I’m motivated by my family, the desire to leave a positive legacy, and building a company rooted in long term success, flexibility, and meaningful relationships.

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my wife and 3 kids. I’m also passionate about giving back to my community and setting an example for my kids on the importance of perseverance, service, and vision.

Conor R. Crawford

Executive Vice President | General Counsel

"In a democratic society like that of the United States, where fortunes are small and ill-secured, everyone works and work leads to everything." --Alexis de Tocqueville

Conor joined AAI in April 2021, after working extensively with AAI in private practice since 2018. Conor oversees legal, HR, and compliance at the company. He also plays a key role in agency and carrier relations. Conor has helped agencies with a variety of matters, including business strategy, book acquisitions, human resources, and perpetuation planning.

Conor previously worked at an Am Law 100 firm in its Business & Transactions division, where he specialized in mergers and acquisitions, emerging companies and venture capital, and securities and capital markets. Conor also served as Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable James E. Gritzner in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa.

Conor is a graduate of Yale University (B.A., History) and the University of Virginia School of Law (J.D.). Conor also graduated from Godolphin Flying Start, the world's preeminent management training program for thoroughbred industry leaders, where he completed equine business studies in Ireland, England, Australia, and Dubai.

In his free time, Conor helps his father with a family business, Donegal Racing, which campaigned 2022 Belmont Stakes Champion Mo Donegal. Conor loves reading, skiing, hiking, golfing, and spending time with his wife and son.

Eddie Floyd, CIC

President of Retail Agency Division

Eddie Floyd, CIC, is the President of AAI Insurance, where he provides strategic leadership focused on organizational growth, operational excellence, and delivering client centered insurance solutions. In this role, Eddie leads company strategy, strengthens key partnerships, and drives initiatives that support long term value creation and sustainable performance.

Previously, Eddie served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Plexus Groupe, where he oversaw day to day operations while also directing the sales division. He partnered closely with sales teams to drive revenue growth, improve sales effectiveness, and ensure operational capabilities scaled to support client acquisition and retention. His tenure was defined by strong execution, collaboration, and performance accountability.

Prior to Plexus Groupe, Eddie held the role of Regional President at Relation Insurance, where he led regional operations and sales teams, managed complex client portfolios, and supported strategic market expansion. His leadership helped align regional strategy with enterprise objectives while reinforcing a culture focused on growth, accountability, and exceptional client service.

Eddie brings advanced industry knowledge and a disciplined advisory approach to risk management and insurance strategy. Outside of his professional career, he is an avid aviation enthusiast and licensed pilot, enjoying flying as a hobby that reflects his appreciation for precision, discipline, and continuous learning.

Salvatore Morello

Executive Vice President of Agency & Carrier Relations

"I am honored to be part of a leadership team committed to supporting the independent agency distribution channel, and focused on driving long term profitable growth for both our agents and carrier partners."

Salvatore joined AAI in 2026 as Executive Vice President of Agency & Carrier Relations, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in the Property & Casualty insurance industry. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Personal Insurance Field Sales Operations at Travelers Insurance, where he led national sales operations and field enablement across seven regions representing approximately $17B in direct written premium.

For AAI's network agencies, Salvatore's arrival means stronger carrier access, deeper carrier relationships, and a leader who has sat on the carrier side of the table and knows exactly what it takes to win there. He is focused on expanding and optimizing AAI's lineup of 50+ carriers in 40+ states, so member agencies have the markets, products, and underwriting appetite they need to write more business and grow their books with confidence.

Salvatore also leads the agency side of the strategy, which means a more consistent, scalable support experience for every agency in the network. From new agency onboarding to long term growth planning, his work is centered on giving members the tools, carrier economics, and field support that help them compete, retain clients, and build profitable, enterprise grade agencies.

His track record of driving profitable growth and building high performing teams translates directly into measurable outcomes for AAI members: better market access, stronger commission and profit sharing economics, and a leadership voice in the carrier community advocating for the independent channel every day.

Ross Haskett

Executive Vice President of Sales

Ross Haskett joined AAI in December 2025, bringing a strong background in banking and a specialized focus on agency financing. Prior to AAI, he held roles at Live Oak Bank and Westfield Bank, where he led acquisition focused transactions and advised clients on complex financing strategies.

At AAI, Ross is focused on driving sustainable growth, increasing market share, and supporting long term profitability. He works closely with agency partners to help them scale effectively while aligning with the organization’s broader growth strategy.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and is known for combining deep industry knowledge with a practical, relationship driven approach.

Ross lives on the coast of North Carolina with his wife and sons. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with his family and has a passion for cooking

Cristina Pope

Financial Controller

"Finance works best when it informs strategy, not just reports results"

Cristina Pope is a senior finance executive with more than 20 years of experience leading accounting, finance, and operational functions for companies across manufacturing, distribution, wholesale, professional services, and financial services industries.

Cristina has held progressive leadership roles including CFO, Controller, and Finance Manager, partnering closely with executive teams, private equity stakeholders, and international corporate offices to deliver accurate financial reporting, strengthen internal controls, and support strategic growth initiatives. Her expertise spans financial statement preparation and analysis, cost and inventory management, cash flow forecasting, tax compliance, ERP implementations, and process optimization.

Cristina holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is highly proficient in a wide range of financial and ERP systems, including NetSuite, SAP, JD Edwards, Sage, Hyperion, and QuickBooks. She is recognized as a collaborative, results-driven professional with a strong commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Cristina lives in North Carolina with her husband and son, along with two sweet puppies. Cristina enjoys traveling, reading, sports (especially college football) and spending time with her husband and son.

MEET OUR EXECUTIVE TEAM