Pros

Because Guardian is a mutual insurance company and accountable to its policy holders, Guardian has the ability to pursue long term goals without stockholder pressure. It also tends to be conservative in its investments, which has allowed it to escape much of the financial wreckage the current economic climate has wrought.

Cons

Guardian's greatest strength is possibly its greatest weakness. Its insulation from short term pressures allows less than stellar people to remain and also gives senior management fiefdoms, in which they are are allowed to pursue individual agendas. These agendas can easily descend into the petty and emotional where it is more important to eliminate a rival than address long-term goals.

Advice to Senior Management

Guardian has enormous potential, so concentrate on at hiring/retaining management that wants to do the right thing for the company rather than play politics. While conservative investment is good, Guardian also needs to invest in a long term management strategy that will build upon its assets to grow the company.