Thomas Mann COO, AgencyFocus
Thomas Mann has spent over 10 years in the insurance industry he grew up around. Having worked as both a captive and independent agent, he has developed a unique understanding of the industry from multiple perspectives. Thomas has also led Customer Success at two dynamic InsurTech startups, where he played a key role in driving innovation and enhancing the client experience.
As the COO of AgencyFocus, he leverages his deep industry knowledge and startup experience to help agencies exceed their goals. By optimizing workflows with technology, Thomas empowers agencies to deliver exceptional customer experiences and achieve long-term success.
Tim Dodge, AU, ARM, CPCU AVP of Research & Information, Big I NY
Timothy D. Dodge, AU, ARM, CPCU is the Assistant Vice President of Research and Information for Big I New York, headquartered in Dewitt, New York. Tim is responsible for answering members' questions about technical, compliance, and legislative matters related to insurance. He also creates content for and maintains sections of Big I New York's website, teaches continuing education classes, and works on legislative and regulatory issues.
Since 2008, he has served on national committees that work with ISO to improve coverage forms, including the Big I's Technical Affairs Committee and the Mid-America Insurance Conference. He previously worked as a commercial lines underwriter and underwriting trainer for CNA Insurance in Syracuse. He is a graduate of the State University of New York College at Brockport and received the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter designation in 1998. He has held his current position with Big I New York since 2002.

Caitlin Evans Lead Solution Consultant, Applied Systems & Former BrokerCaitlin is an experienced professional in the insurance industry, with
experience at an MGA/Wholesaler and independent insurance agency having held
several prestigious roles such as P&C Account Manager, Controller, and
Chief Operating Officer. Today, she serves as a Senior Solution Consultant for
Applied Systems, providing insurance expertise as part of customer engagements
and as critical input to the product organization.
Beyond her usual role,
Caitlin has been a champion for AI product initiatives within Team Applied,
demonstrating her forward-thinking approach to technology. Her approach
encompasses a seamless blend of technology and industry knowledge, making her a
valuable asset in the field of insurance.

Casey Nelson Director of Consulting Services, Catalyit & Former Agency Principal Casey is a passionate educator turned insurance expert with over 9 years of experience in the industry. Casey spent 6 years running a successful agency before he founded an insurance technology consulting company to address the growing need for technology-driven solutions.
Casey’s true passion lies in empowering agencies to fully leverage their technology, helping them streamline processes and achieve greater efficiency.

Charles Symington President & CEO, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America Charles Symington is president & CEO of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”), the nation’s largest property-casualty insurance trade association. He has held senior leadership roles at the Big “I” for nearly two decades, directing its Capitol Hill office and leading major advocacy efforts, including the reauthorization of TRIA and securing small business tax relief.
Previously, he served as counsel in the U.S. House of Representatives and practiced insurance defense law. A recognized industry leader and frequent speaker, Symington is a University of Virginia and Emory Law graduate, a board member of ACORD, and former chair of the National Down Syndrome Society. He lives in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife and three children.

Jessica León CEO, Jolly Inbound & HubSpot Consultant Jessica León is the CEO of Jolly Inbound and a HubSpot consultant with 8 years of experience
helping businesses streamline and scale their sales, marketing, and customer success
operations. Alongside her team, she builds tailored strategies and implements HubSpot in ways
that align with each team’s processes and goals.
She’s worked with companies across a range of industries, including insurance, education,
SaaS, and manufacturing, helping them shorten sales cycles, improve alignment, and build
systems that support long-term growth. Jessica is also passionate about how AI can empower teams, giving them tools to automate,
uncover insights, and make better decisions, without losing the human side of their work.
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