The inland marine insurance industry is set to undergo a significant transition as Kevin O'Brien, the President and CEO of the Inland Marine Underwriters Association (IMUA), has announced his retirement effective January 31, 2025. O'Brien's 14-year tenure at the helm of IMUA has been marked by substantial growth and innovation, positioning the association as a leader in professional development and financial stability within the industry.
Under O'Brien's leadership, IMUA has seen its membership reach unprecedented levels, including the addition of five national brokers, and the Annual Meeting's attendance more than double. His introduction of all-access remote education and e-learning programs has revolutionized professional development for over 4,000 employees across 54 member insurance companies and 45 associate members. These initiatives have not only enhanced IMUA's offerings but also set new standards for the industry at large.
O'Brien's achievements include the successful launch of the All Access Learning platform, which provides complimentary remote and virtual education, and the upcoming introduction of a new Association Management System (AMS) alongside an integrated Learning Management System (LMS). These tools are expected to further solidify IMUA's role as a cornerstone of the inland marine insurance sector, a position it has held since its founding in 1930.
The search for O'Brien's successor comes at a critical juncture for the insurance industry, which faces challenges such as technological disruption and evolving risk landscapes. O'Brien's legacy of financial strength, expanded educational offerings, and membership growth provides a strong foundation for the next leader to build upon. His departure signifies the end of an era but also opens the door for continued innovation and progress within IMUA and the broader inland marine insurance industry.
For more information on IMUA's initiatives and O'Brien's contributions, visit https://www.imua.org.
