InstaBrain appoints Jim Harkensee as Director of Strategic Relationships

InstaBrain, Inc., an AI-native insurtech company based in Scottsdale, Arizona, announced on October 5, 2026, that Jim Harkensee has been appointed as the Director of Strategic Relationships. In this role, Harkensee will manage the company's relationships with insurance carriers, reinsurers, and large independent marketing organizations, focusing on product collaboration and expanding distribution through the platform. More details can be found in the original announcement here.

Harkensee brings over four decades of experience in the insurance industry, having previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Fidelity Life Association and Chief Actuary at Zurich Life. His extensive background includes leadership in actuarial roles, product development, and insurance company operations.

David Racich, co-founder and CEO of InstaBrain, praised Harkensee's expertise, stating, "Jim has run a carrier, priced the risk and led a direct business. He knows what carriers need because he has run one." Racich emphasized the company's goal to dominate the instant-issue life insurance category, highlighting Harkensee's role in achieving that aim.

InstaBrain aims to process between 500,000 and 600,000 applications annually as it introduces new products and carriers. The company has also recently launched InstaBrain iQ, an autonomous communication tool designed to alert agents and policyholders about payment issues. Additionally, InstaBrain's fraud intelligence platform, FraudBrain, continuously evaluates producers within its network to mitigate risks.

Harkensee expressed enthusiasm about joining InstaBrain, noting, "This platform delivers the growth that carriers, reinsurers and distributors want and can trust. I am glad to help bring those partners together."