Former Pango Group CEO and Former Pango Group President Bring Decades of Experience Building and Scaling One of California's Largest Independent Escrow Companies
GLENDALE, Calif., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Peak Escrow announced today that former Glen Oaks Escrow executives Scott Akerley and Jeff Russell have joined the independently owned escrow company as founders.
Akerley and Russell reunite with Kristen Hartwick, John Salmon and Nazeli Grigorian, bringing together five longtime colleagues with extensive experience in escrow operations, company building and organizational leadership. Together, the five founders bring more than 120 years of experience.
Akerley previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Pango Group, the parent company of Glen Oaks Escrow, while Russell served as President. Together, they played integral roles in building and growing the organization into one of California's largest independent escrow companies before its acquisition by First American.
"Peak gives us the opportunity to build again alongside people we know, respect and trust," said Akerley. "We share a belief that a successful company begins with its people. Strong leadership, a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to clients create the foundation for lasting growth. I am excited about what we will accomplish together."
Akerley brings decades of experience in entrepreneurship, organizational leadership and building scalable operations. Throughout his career, he has focused on setting vision, developing leaders and creating organizations that make a meaningful impact on their people, partners, and communities.
Russell brings extensive experience in escrow operations, coaching and organizational leadership. As President of Pango Group, he played a central role in translating the company's vision into a scalable operating model while cultivating a culture grounded in trust, accountability and professional development.
"I've always believed that a company is only as strong as the people in it and that leadership means investing in people, coaching them, developing them and giving them the support to do their best work," said Russell. "That's the kind of culture we built at Glen Oaks, and it's what we're bringing to Peak."
As founders, Akerley and Russell will contribute their experience in strategy, operations, leadership development and sustainable growth. They join Hartwick, Salmon and Grigorian, who lead Peak Escrow's escrow operations and client service.
"We are thrilled to welcome Scott and Jeff to Peak," said Hartwick. "We have seen firsthand the leadership, perspective and experience they bring to an organization. Our shared history gives us a strong foundation, but what is most exciting is the opportunity to create something new together and build a company that reflects our collective vision for the future of independent escrow."
Peak Escrow officially opened its Glendale headquarters on September 14, 2026. The company serves real estate professionals, buyers, sellers, lenders and other transaction partners throughout Southern California across a broad range of residential, commercial and specialized escrow services.
About Peak Escrow
Founded in 2026, Peak Escrow is an independently owned and operated escrow company based in Glendale, California, serving Southern California's residential, commercial and specialized escrow markets. The company was built around a model of direct partner involvement, responsive communication and rigorous security standards. Peak Escrow is located at 6100 San Fernando Road, Suite 201, Glendale, California 91201.
Media Contact
Jessica Fernstrom, Peak Escrow, 1 (626) 740-0024, [email protected], https://www.peakescrow.com/
SOURCE Peak Escrow
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