Joel Wood (pictured), who was announced as president/CEO of the Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers (CIAB or the Council) in May, has now assumed his dual role. As planned, former CEO Ken A. Crerar will now serve as CEO, while Kathryn Richardson will continue as COO. Wood served as CIAB president prior to the July appointment.

Wood, who becomes president in 2022 after decades of leading the government affairs team, will work to enhance outreach, advocacy, talent development and market intelligence for member firms, which handle the majority of U.S. property and casualty insurance premiums and employee benefits businesses.

Since taking office in 1993, Wood has played a pivotal role in navigating the legislative landscape affecting insurance brokerage. His efforts have included health insurance changes, terrorism reinsurance, and regulatory reforms. Wood’s long-standing advisory role to Crerar and the CIAB Board has been critical to the growth of the association.

“Joel is a skilled relationship builder and an absolute expert on our industry and our members,” Crerar said. “He knows our business and our issues inside and out. We have worked together for over 30 years as colleagues and friends, and I have every confidence in Joel as he now leads the Board.”

Wood expressed his commitment to the CIAB’s mission, saying: “There is no association in the world that represents more policyholders and premiums than the Council. Our member companies are first in class, size, service and community engagement. They deserve an association that will continue to uphold all of these standards, and I look forward to building on that foundation.”

Wood was a prominent figure in Washington, D.C., known for his work on tax and regulatory issues affecting commercial insurance brokerages. He also led the growth of CouncilPAC, the council’s influential political action committee.

Keith Schuler, CEO of Interwest Insurance and Chairman of the Board, affirmed Wood’s suitability for the role, saying, “Joel brings a unique perspective to the role of CEO. The Board is very fortunate to have someone as qualified as Joel who has worked closely with Ken over the past 30 years.

“Promoting from within reflects a commitment to talent development, which the Board places great importance on. This ensures a smooth transition while creating more opportunities for members and staff. We couldn’t be more excited for Joel as he takes on his new role.”

Meanwhile, as part of the transition, Elizabeth McDade, longtime senior vice president of leadership and administrative resources, will assume the role of executive vice president of the Council Foundation. She will focus on attracting diverse young professionals to the commercial insurance brokerage industry while continuing to oversee diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Julia Ruiz, who has been with the Council since 2009, will succeed McDade as Senior Vice President, Leadership and Management Resources. Ruiz will lead the Council’s talent development and resources programs for member firms. These newly announced changes are effective immediately.

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