Founder and CEO
As founder and CEO of Global Guardian Services, Gordon Pennington brings over 20 years of leadership experience in insurance and risk management. His career highlights include leading national claims operations, supervising teams of hundreds, and resolving complex claims for a diverse client base. With dual bachelor’s degrees in Business and Accounting and an MBA in Organizational Development, Gordon is committed to delivering tailored claims solutions, ensuring compliance, and fostering lasting client relationships. His dedication to excellence drives GGS’s mission to provide trusted, results-driven services.
EVP of Claims
Lee Baker brings decades of expertise to his role as Vice President of Claims at Global Guardian Services. Starting his career as a multi-line property damage appraiser, Lee has since held leadership roles across a variety of insurance lines at top-tier carriers. Known as a Material Damage SME, he has a proven track record of building successful programs, refining operations, and enhancing service delivery. With deep knowledge in auto, property, heavy equipment, and marine appraisal, Lee is committed to driving innovation and ensuring exceptional outcomes for GGS clients.
VP of Claims
Michael M. Gonzalez is a seasoned claims leader with extensive experience across various insurance lines, including commercial property, auto, and trucking. As Assistant Vice President of Claims, he provides strategic oversight, ensuring timely and efficient claim resolutions while upholding compliance and fostering collaboration. With a strong background in leadership at national claims organizations, Michael’s expertise in coverage analysis and investigations underscores Global Guardian’s dedication to delivering exceptional client service.
General Counsel
Howard J. Hirsch, Esq., brings decades of experience in professional liability and commercial general liability claims to his role as General Counsel at Global Guardian Services. With a background spanning financial institutions, insurance companies, and construction entities, Howard has extensive expertise in claim adjustment, coverage analysis, and legal counsel. His career includes roles as in-house counsel and general counsel, where he honed his skills in managing complex liability cases and providing strategic legal insights.
Executive Vice President, GGS Optima SIU
Evo Riguzzi Jr. is the Executive Vice President of GGS Optima SIU, a national firm specializing in investigations, antifraud compliance, and training. With a career spanning military service as a U.S. Army Major General and leadership in corporate security, Evo has recovered millions in fraud prevention efforts. A graduate of Gannon College and the U.S. Army War College, he is a decorated leader committed to delivering innovative security solutions.
Associate General Counsel and Director of Claims
Igor Stolyar is a seasoned attorney and claims professional with a comprehensive background in litigation, insurance defense, and complex claims management. He is admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, and U.S. District Court for the Eastern and Southern District of New York. Igor brings nearly a decade of focused legal expertise and experience across all aspects of insurance defense and claims handling.
Igor’s hybrid experience as both a litigator and claims handler gives him a unique edge in bridging the gap between legal theory and practical claims resolution. He has successfully directed litigation teams, managed paralegals, staff, and other claim professionals and has built a reputation for his thorough case evaluations and effective resolution skills. His knowledge combined with his deep understanding of insurance policies and protocols positions him as a trusted leader in high-stakes liability matters.
Education
Mr. Stolyar earned his Juris Doctor from Touro University.
VP of Investigations and Operations
As Vice President of Investigations and Operations, Heather Goudreau brings extensive experience managing suspicious insurance transactions and fraud investigations on a national scale. Known for her expertise in auto claims and conducting challenging interviews, Heather is licensed as a Private Investigator in New York and holds the Certified Insurance Fraud Investigator designation. She continuously enhances her skills through specialized training and remains dedicated to combating insurance fraud with precision and professionalism.
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