Kevin O'Brien to Step Down as President and CEO of Inland Marine Underwriters Association

Kevin O'Brien, the long-standing President and CEO of the Inland Marine Underwriters Association (IMUA), has announced his intention to step down from his position effective January 31, 2025. The announcement came during a recent Executive Committee meeting, where O'Brien informed IMUA's officers of his decision to pursue new opportunities outside the organization after 14 years at its helm.

Under O'Brien's leadership, IMUA has experienced substantial growth and transformation. The association, which serves as a vital resource for the inland marine insurance industry, has expanded its membership to include 54 insurance companies, 45 associate members, and provides services to over 4,000 of their employees. IMUA's primary focus has been on advocating for the interests of the inland marine insurance industry while fostering education and professional development among industry professionals.

During his tenure, O'Brien spearheaded several initiatives that have significantly enhanced the association's influence and member services. One of his most notable achievements was the development of all-access remote education and e-learning programs, which have become central to IMUA's mission. These programs have revolutionized the way industry professionals access educational resources and have been instrumental in establishing IMUA as a leader in professional development within the sector.

O'Brien's leadership has also resulted in substantial financial growth for the organization. He stated, "When I assumed this role, I set out with two primary goals: to establish IMUA as the standard for professional development within the industry and to strengthen the organization's financial foundation. I'm proud of what we've accomplished." The association now boasts record-high membership numbers, including the addition of five national brokers, and enjoys a stronger financial position than ever before.

The success of IMUA's educational initiatives is evident in the significant increase in attendance at its Annual Meeting, which has grown from 200 to over 400 attendees. This event has become recognized as the industry's premier educational symposium, further cementing IMUA's role as a cornerstone of professional development in the inland marine insurance sector.

Looking towards the future, O'Brien expressed optimism about the association's trajectory. IMUA is poised to launch a new Association Management System (AMS) alongside an integrated Learning Management System (LMS), which are expected to further enhance the organization's capabilities and service offerings to its members.

The IMUA, founded in 1930, has long been recognized as the national association for the commercial inland marine insurance industry. It represents over 90 percent of all commercial inland marine insurers and provides a wide range of services, including comprehensive professional development programs, research papers, bulletins, and industry analysis.

As the search for O'Brien's successor begins, the impact of his leadership on IMUA and the broader inland marine insurance industry is clear. His strategic vision and commitment to education and professional development have positioned IMUA for continued success in the years to come. The next leader of IMUA will inherit an organization that is financially robust, technologically advanced, and deeply committed to serving its members and the industry at large.