Bala Cynwyd, PA — Jan. 22, 2026 — Karr Barth Administrators today announced a planned leadership transition designed to support the company’s continued growth and long-term strategy. Christian Schneider, previously serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2, 2026. Brian M. Sharkey, who has served as President and Chief Executive Officer since 1997, will transition to the role of Executive Chairman.
As President and CEO, Christian will assume responsibility for the company’s overall strategic direction, operations, and performance. Since joining Karr Barth in 2019, he has played a key role in advancing critical initiatives and driving operational excellence, demonstrating strong leadership and a deep understanding of the company’s business and values.
In his new role as Executive Chairman, Brian will continue to provide strategic guidance and counsel to the leadership team. This transition ensures continuity of leadership while positioning the company to execute its long-term vision of cultivating and deepening long-term client and partner relationships.
Prior to joining Karr Barth, Christian oversaw global operations performance management and analytic discovery at Dell Technologies. He graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. As a fellow in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Leaders for Global Operations program, he earned dual master's degrees in business administration and engineering systems.
About Karr Barth Administrators
Karr Barth Administrators has been a leader in the design, funding and administration of nonqualified employee benefit plans since ERISA was adopted in 1974. Our team of experts provides end-to-end support for each plan; benefit structure, funding strategy and service requirements are carried out on an individually customized basis. Our clientele includes the full spectrum of American business — from the nation’s largest firms to growing entrepreneurships. Visit www.kbadmin.com for more information.
Media Contact:
Ryan Downey
Director, Communications & Business Development
ryan.downey@kbadmin.com