Ryan Esko: Leading Balfour & Co. Into a New Era of Innovation and Tradition

For more than a century, Balfour & Co. has stood as a beacon of tradition, celebrating life’s most cherished milestones through class rings, graduation regalia, yearbooks, and photography. Now, under the visionary leadership of Ryan J. Esko, the company is not just preserving history but redefining it. As CEO and Board Director, Esko is spearheading a digital transformation while executing a strategic profit improvement plan, positioning Balfour & Co. as a modern leader in the commencement services industry.

Ryan Esko’s impressive career spans multiple industries, where he has consistently driven organizations toward higher profitability, enhanced cash flows, and increased valuations. Before taking the helm at Balfour & Co., Esko made a significant impact as the CEO of Smokey Bones, a renowned restaurant chain with nearly 4,000 employees. Under his leadership, Smokey Bones experienced its best financial performance in two decades, achieving record guest satisfaction scores and operational efficiencies that transformed the company’s financial health.

Esko’s expertise extends beyond the restaurant industry. His tenure with a prominent private equity firm allowed him to lead operational improvements across a portfolio of 85 companies. He has served as CEO and President of various major brands, including Kellwood (fashion apparel wholesaler and retailer), DB Apparel (one of Europe’s largest intimate apparel companies), and Famosa (a leading international toy company). With a diverse background in marketing, finance, operations, and consulting—gained through prestigious firms such as the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and AlixPartners—Esko brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to every organization he leads.

Balfour & Co. is one of the largest commencement services providers in North America, operating under distinguished brands such as Balfour®, GradImages®, University Photo®, Gaspard®, ArtCarved®, KeepSake®, and Taylor Publishing Company®. With approximately 5,000 employees, the company serves middle school, high school, and college students across the continent, offering a one-stop-shop for graduation essentials.

Esko’s leadership at Balfour is marked by an emphasis on modernization and efficiency. A key component of this strategy is the company’s commitment to digital product innovation. Balfour’s streamlined online ordering systems, professional-grade photography services, and personalized jewelry collections cater to the evolving needs of students, educators, and alumni.

While Balfour continues to embrace technology, it remains deeply committed to the traditions that have defined it for over a century. Class rings, a longstanding symbol of achievement and unity, remain a cornerstone of the company’s offerings. Students can personalize their rings through the exclusive University Collection, choosing from a range of high-quality materials—including ethically sourced, conflict-free diamonds and lab-created birthstones.

Beyond jewelry, Balfour’s product line includes durable school uniforms, customizable bomber letter jackets, and professional clothing for faculty and staff. The company’s GradImages® brand, boasting 50 years of experience in graduation photography, captures nearly two million graduates annually across more than 6,000 ceremonies, serving over 3,300 schools.

Esko’s leadership extends beyond executive roles—his board experience has been instrumental in guiding numerous companies toward financial and operational success. Currently serving as Chairman of TooJay’s restaurant chain, Esko has played a pivotal role in increasing profitability and cash flow. His previous board roles include David’s Bridal, VINCE fashion/retail brand, Bar Louie, Restaurants Unlimited, and several others. His ability to drive strategic improvements has made him a sought-after advisor for both public and private companies.

Esko’s influence is not confined to corporate boardrooms. He is the founder and CEO of Juntos Regalando Sonrisas (‘Together Giving Smiles’), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children in the U.S. and Latin America. His dedication to philanthropy underscores his belief that leadership is about creating a lasting, positive impact—both in business and in the communities he serves.

As Balfour & Co. moves forward under Esko’s leadership, the company is poised to blend legacy with innovation, ensuring that students and families continue to celebrate life’s biggest moments with products of unmatched quality and service. With a clear vision and a track record of transformative leadership, Esko is redefining what it means to honor tradition in a digital age.

For more information about Balfour & Co., visit Balfour.com and GradImages.com.