He first established Marine and General Insurance Brokers in 1969 after returning from his studies and working abroad. Nana Ampem was compelled to start Vanguard Assurance in 1975 after a law in 1972 made it obligatory for all government institutions in Ghana to deal directly with State Insurance Company and not through a broker.
Comprises of Vanguard Assurance Company Limited, Vanguard Life, City Investments Company Limited and Vanguard Properties Limited.