Eric Thomes built the early foundation for his leadership journey during his years at Saint John’s University. As a member of the Johnnies men’s basketball program, he was known for his work ethic, competitive drive, and commitment to team success. Balancing academics and athletics, Thomes embodied the scholar-athlete culture that has long been a hallmark of the Saint John’s experience.

His time in Collegeville helped shape the leadership principles that would guide him throughout his professional career — discipline, accountability, teamwork, and long-term commitment to excellence.

Following graduation from Saint John’s, Thomes began his career in the financial services industry, eventually joining Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America, headquartered in Minnesota. Over the course of more than three decades with the organization, he rose through a series of leadership roles across sales, distribution, and strategic development.

Thomes ultimately became Chief Distribution Officer, overseeing the company’s national distribution strategy and partnerships with financial professionals across the country. In this role, he leads a nationwide organization supporting financial advisors, broker-dealers, banks, and independent firms focused on helping Americans prepare for retirement.

1994
Graduates from Saint John’s University

Early Career
Begins career in financial services

Joins Allianz Life
Advances through multiple leadership roles across sales and distribution

Senior Leadership
Named Chief Distribution Officer for Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America

Today, Eric Thomes continues to play a major leadership role in the financial services industry, helping shape the future of retirement planning and financial distribution across the United States. His leadership reflects the values developed during his time at Saint John’s — teamwork, accountability, and principled leadership.

He also serves his community and gives back.

• Former Minnetonka Boys Basketball Association President

• AAU Basketball Coach for 15 years with D1MN and Swish

• Along with wife Carolyn, Chairs of the Alzheimer’s Association Purple Gala, 2020 & 2021

• Three boys currently in college (one at Gustavus and two and St. John’s)

The Benedictine values and leadership lessons developed during his time at Saint John’s remain central to Thomes’s professional approach. The culture of teamwork, integrity, and community continues to shape how he leads organizations and mentors colleagues within the financial services industry.

Eric Thomes’ journey demonstrates how the lessons learned through Johnnie basketball extend far beyond the court. His career reflects the enduring strength of the Johnnie network — where discipline, teamwork, and leadership developed in Collegeville continue to shape success across industries.

Stories like Thomes’s reinforce the mission of the Johnnie Basketball Alumni Association to celebrate alumni achievements, strengthen connections across generations of Johnnies, and highlight the lifelong impact of the Johnnie basketball experience.