The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of New York (IIABNY) announced that president and CEO Richard Poppa, CAE, AAI, will retire at the end of November 2016 after leading the association for nearly 20 years.
"When you say the name Dick Poppa to industry peers a smile immediately appears. From the warmth and unwavering integrity in which he handles all people and business, to his tireless work ethic and forward-thinking strategic planning - his reputation proceeds him,” said IIABNY Chair of the Board Todd Rockefeller. "Dick has dedicated his life’s work to strengthening the Independent Agency channel and his impact has been felt around the country. IIABNY has been blessed to benefit from his talent and inspiration for almost two decades of a storied career. He will be greatly missed."
A proud native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Poppa (pronounced "Poppy") has served as IIABNY's chief staff executive officer since 1996. Prior to that, he served as senior vice-president and chief operating officer for the Independent Insurance Agents Association of America; executive vice-president of the Independent Insurance Agents of Indiana; administrative vice-president of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of California; staff member at the Insurance Institute of Indiana; and press aide to the lieutenant governor of Indiana. In addition to his work with IIABNY, Poppa was a catalyst for, and held a leadership position with, TrustedChoice.com. A recipient of many honors in his career, he most recently received the Jeff Yates Lifetime Achievement Award from the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America.
"It has been my privilege to serve independent agents, innovate with an incredible team and I’m proud of the work we have accomplished together,” said Mr. Poppa. “The true highlight of my career has been the amazing people we have been blessed to spend time with and now call our life-long friends. In my life, that means the most."
Dick and his wife Kim will enjoy their passion for travel in retirement, from a home base in Indiana. While Poppa will contribute to a few business projects and advisory boards, he is excited to increase involvement with charitable activities, especially animal welfare.
The IIABNY Board of Directors has formed a search committee, comprised of agent leaders, and a national search firm has been selected.