Born on August 4, 1962 in Chicago, Illinois, Russ graduated in 1984 from The University of Memphis with a BBA degree. He began his career with New England Financial as an agent in the Memphis Dougharty agency in 1989. From 1992 until 1997, Russ excelled as a Sales Manager and won several awards including the Agency Builder Award, MDRT, Hall of Fame, Life member of Leaders, NQA, and NSAA. On April 1, 1997, Russ became Managing Partner of the Memphis Agency. The firm won the Summit Award, a Ship's Bell Award, the Heritage Award, The President's Trophy, and Chairman's Council three times. Russ was recognized as one of the 'Top 40 Under 40' by the Memphis Business Journal. In addition to Memphis, the firm has offices across the Southeast, including locations in Nashville and Birmingham. 

Russ and his wife, Denise, and their three sons Jonathan, Stephen, and Daniel, are all active in their church and community. 

Organizations

• Memphis Life Underwriters 
• GAMA 
• Society of Financial Services Professionals