Your Trusted Coastal Insurance Partner
We are a Louisiana-domiciled insurer specializing in coastal residential and commercial property coverage. Partnering closely with our agency network, we deliver tailored, cost-effective solutions designed to meet the unique needs of policyholders in catastrophe-exposed markets.
Our leadership team brings more than a century of combined experience navigating complex property risks, with deep expertise in coastal and high-hazard environments. We prioritize disciplined, relationship-driven distribution—focusing on quality over quantity—to ensure long-term stability and consistent performance. This approach has enabled us to build and maintain a strong track record of reliability and trust with our agents, policyholders, and stakeholder.
Meet The Team
Ricardo Espino President & CEO
Brings over 30 years of industry experience, with a proven track record of leading P&C organizations through complex market environments. Most recently served as CEO of Lilypad Insurance Holdings, where he also led Centauri Specialty Insurance through its successful acquisition during his tenure. Espino has been deeply engaged in coastal Southeast hurricane-exposed markets since 1995, beginning as Chief Financial Officer of Select Insurance Holdings, Inc., and later serving as President of Universal North America, where he played a key role in the company’s formation and expansion.
 Traci Stillwagon President & COO
Most recently served as Chief Operating Officer of Lilypad Insurance Holdings, she bring over 30 years of diversified industry experience. Background includes leadership roles in technology, process improvement, claims, project management and instructional design. Joined the coastal property market in 2021 when she took the Operations leadership role for the Centauri entities, handling oversight of Personal and Commercial Lines Underwriting, Claims, Business Operations and Systems. Prior to 2021, she spent 26 years at Nationwide Insurance with wide variety of experiences.
Judith Rosbrook Chief Claims Officer
Had 35 years of experience with Nationwide insurance, with leadership roles in personal and commercial lines claims, quality assurance, subrogation, sales, and claims administration. She also excels in organizational change management and operational transformation initiatives designed to enhance claims handling efficiency and customer satisfaction. Most recently she served as VP, Claims for Lilypad Insurance Holdings and was responsible for the oversight of all claims TPA performance prior to insourcing all claims activities.
Stacy Warholak CFO
Brings 16+ years of experience leading finance, accounting, and governance functions in high-growth, complex organizations, with deep expertise in insurance and public company environments. Proven in driving transformation, including IPO readiness, SOX implementation, and building scalable financial infrastructures. Prior to joining GuardianPointe, Warholak served as Senior Director at Private Client Select, leading enterprise initiatives to enhance financial reporting and data integrity. She also served as a Managing Director and Market Leader, advising executive teams and boards on strategy, compliance, and operational improvement while leading cross-functional teams. Stacy received her BBA from Ohio University and maintains her CPA designation.
Ya Jia CRO
Ya Jia, a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS), Member of the American Academy of Actuaries (MAAA), and Associate in Reinsurance (ARe), is a P&C actuarial leader with over 20 years of experience across reinsurers — including Munich Re and Gen Re — and primary carriers such as FCCI, Allied Trust, and Nationwide. She has built actuarial functions from the ground up and brings hands-on expertise in reserving, reinsurance pricing, and statutory opinions, offering a rare integrated perspective from both sides of the reinsurance relationship. Ya holds a Master of Science in Statistics from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Science in Accounting from Renmin University of China, and an undergraduate degree in Statistics from Nanjing University of Finance & Economics.
John Eric Buffamoyer VP of Underwriting
Brings over 25 years of experience in the property and casualty insurance industry, with expertise spanning agency operations and underwriting leadership. Combines frontline agency insight with strong capabilities in risk selection, portfolio management, and market strategy. Known for navigating complex market cycles, driving innovative underwriting approaches, and leading teams through growth and transformation. Entrepreneurial experience adds a results-driven, agile approach to both start-ups and established organizations. He graduated from Spartanburg Methodist College and holds several industry designations, including Associate in General Insurance (AINS), Associate in Insurance Services (AIS), Associate in Personal Insurance (API), and Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA)
Samantha Cherry VP Sales and Marketing
With over 35 years in the insurance industry, Samantha recently served as Senior Vice President for Victor Insurance, where she oversaw relationships with commercial and residential trading partners and drove key business development initiatives. Her background includes leadership roles with Hartford Insurance and several years in retail agencies, giving her a comprehensive, partnership‑focused perspective across the insurance landscape. She is a graduate of Clemson University with a Bachelors in Financial Management and holds her ARM and CIC industry designations.
Tammy Brown Director of Commercial Underwriting
Tammy brings more than 35 years of experience in commercial lines insurance, with extensive expertise supporting property and liability markets. Throughout her career, she has developed a strong reputation for combining technical knowledge with a client-focused approach to deliver effective insurance solutions. Her background includes systems development, customer experience, and operational process improvement, with a focus on enhancing efficiency and navigating complex insurance environments. Tammy is known for her analytical mindset and ability to solve problems while driving streamlined, results-oriented outcomes. In her current role, she contributes to operational excellence and supports the delivery of tailored risk management solutions that meet the evolving needs of clients and partners.Â
Mike Ely Territory Sales Manager (LA)
Mike brings more than 48 years of distinguished experience in the insurance industry, with deep expertise across personal lines carriers in the Gulf and coastal regions. Prior to joining Guardian Pointe Insurance, he spent 34 years with Allstate Insurance and 14 years with Centauri Specialty Insurance and Lilypad Insurance Holdings, where he held senior leadership roles of increasing responsibility. His background spans agency sales and distribution, strategic product management, underwriting, and enterprise insurance operations. Known for driving growth and strengthening agency partnerships, Mike has a proven track record of delivering results in complex and evolving markets. In his current role, he leads agency sales and product distribution strategy across Louisiana, with a focus on expanding market presence and optimizing channel performance. Mike is a graduate of the University of Mississippi.
Sara Weis Agency Support Manager
Most recently served as the Agency Relations and Licensing Specialist for Centauri Insurance. With a background in insurance operations, administrative support, and human services, she brings a proven ability to build strong relationships with both internal teams and external partners. Prior to transitioning into the insurance industry, Sara held leadership roles in human services where she managed staff and supported individuals in the medical field. This foundation strengthened her leadership, communication, and ability to navigate complex, people-centered environments. Experienced in licensing, data management, and operational support, Sara is known for her organization, accuracy, and proactive communication.
What Sets Us Apart
Local Expertise
We know Louisiana's coastal parishes and the unique risks homeowners and businesses face.
Optimal Pricing
Get the best coverage without overpaying.
Personalized Service
We treat every client like family, tailoring solutions to fit your exact needs.
Focused Coverage
Specialized in HO3 policies for exposed homes and business insurance for local enterprises.
Get Started Today
Whether you’re a homeowner looking for HO3 coverage or a business owner in need of tailored insurance, contact us today.