October 6, 2025
ABJ recognizes Texas Mutual CEO as a 2025 Best CEO
At Texas Mutual, we believe leadership isn’t just about business results—it’s about vision, impact and heart. No one represents that better than our own president & CEO Jeanette Ward, and that’s why we’re thrilled to see her recognized as Austin Business Journal’s 2025 Best CEO in the extra large company category!
Jeanette’s rise to the top of Texas Mutual is a story of perseverance and inspiration. Her hands-on experience across the organization, a dedication to learning and a commitment to supporting colleagues paved the way to her appointment as president and CEO in 2023, becoming the first woman to hold that role at our company.
Inside the organization, Jeanette is driving transformation. Within the last year, she appointed our first chief transformation officer and launched a new set of core values, all while expanding opportunities for development. Under her leadership, we reached a historic milestone this year of serving more than 80,000 businesses across Texas. Jeanette’s blend of accountability and employee support encourages everyone at Texas Mutual to grow their careers while remaining focused on our mission.
But Jeanette’s leadership reaches far beyond the day-to-day operations of Texas Mutual. She’s shaping a broader vision of corporate citizenship, demonstrated through innovative initiatives like our partnership with Primrose School of Austin at Mueller. By dedicating corporate space to the school, Primrose was able to add 12 new classrooms and offer subsidized tuition for 20 students and growing. Through this donation, Texas Mutual is helping to solve workforce challenges and investing in the Austin community. It’s a testament to Jeanette’s belief that the company’s responsibility involves more than insurance, it’s being a stable force for good.
Whether it’s supporting our industry or building the workforce of tomorrow, Jeanette’s influence doesn’t stop at our doors. As chair of Early Matters Greater Austin, she’s a passionate advocate for early childhood education. Jeanette has also served as a board liaison for the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation since 2017. Additionally, her service on the board of the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) helps shape workplace safety and standards across the country. Whether mentoring talent or championing community initiatives, Jeanette demonstrates the power of authentic, purpose-driven leadership.
In addition to Jeanette’s recognition, we’re also proud to share that Meredith Duncan, president & CEO of our health affiliate Texicare, was honored as a nominee for ABJ’s Best CEO Awards. With strategic vision and unwavering dedication, Meredith is leading Texicare through the evolving health care landscape, supporting businesses and families throughout Texas.
Congratulations to Jeanette and Meredith on these well-deserved recognitions. We’re proud to have these visionary leaders guiding Texas Mutual and Texicare forward, making a real difference in the lives of Texans.