Insurance Companies Announce Key Leadership Changes
Several insurance companies are making important leadership appointments and realigning their strategies to focus on technology, underwriting, and operational improvements. These changes reflect the industry’s ongoing efforts to enhance its capabilities and adapt to new market demands.
Canal Insurance Appoints New Chief Technology Officer
Canal Insurance has named Sai Thotapalli as its vice president and chief technology officer. Thotapalli has over 25 years of experience in insurance technology, holding previous leadership positions at Nationwide Insurance, State Farm, State Auto, and Great American Insurance Group. His expertise encompasses automation, IT governance, cloud computing, and enterprise architecture.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sai to our executive team,” said Paul Brocklebank, chairman and chief executive officer at Canal Insurance Company. “His exceptional track record of bridging the gap between business and technology, leading platform modernization and automation initiatives will play a pivotal role in enhancing Canal’s business operations.”
Zurich North America Expands Innovation and Risk Management Capabilities
Tobias Cushing has been promoted to deputy chief underwriting officer at Zurich North America. Reporting to Chief Underwriting Officer Heather Fox, Cushing will focus on driving profitable growth through enhanced technical capabilities and data-driven insights. The company also introduced a new position, head of innovation, to enhance the use of telematics and other tech-driven tools for loss mitigation. This role will report to Cushing.
Trucordia Names New Senior Vice President of Broking and Strategy
Aaron Davidson has been appointed senior vice president of broking and strategy at Trucordia. Davidson previously served as a managing partner at Peak 8 Advisors and as CEO and president of Relay Partners.
Trucordia Chief Executive Officer Felix Morgan stated, “Throughout his career, Aaron has excelled at navigating complex markets, generating revenue and introducing transformative solutions to clients. His extensive background in insurance broking – combined with his proven ability to spur growth through innovative risk management and operational integration – will blaze a solid path forward for our company.”
Davidson will be responsible for strategic planning, risk management, and operational efficiencies. He expressed an interest in integrating technology into Trucordia’s broking and strategy functions to improve client service and overall efficiency.
Safety National Announces Leadership Realignment
Safety National has announced a management restructuring, effective April 1, 2025. The changes include Mark Walls, previously vice president of Client Engagement, becoming corporate senior vice president and chief marketing officer. Dan Berns, formerly vice president of account services, will become corporate senior vice president of operations, overseeing account services and insurance compliance.
Further, Steve Kappel, vice president and chief information officer, has been appointed corporate senior vice president of information technology and chief information officer. Amy Schwent, previously vice president and deputy general counsel, has been promoted to vice president and general counsel.
