Insurance Group Leadership in Turmoil

September 02, 2004, 1:00 a.m. EDT 1 Min Read

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners will be holding an election to reappoint its entire slate of officers, following the resignation of President Ernie Csiszar and Vice President Jim Poolman. Officers usually hold their posts for the full calendar year.

Csiszar resigned from his NAIC post and his position as South Carolina Director of Insurance in order to take the job of president of the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America.

"We are disappointed to see Mr. Csiszar go," said Cathy Weatherford, NAIC executive vice president and CEO, following the announcement of Csiszars decision on Aug. 18. "While this mid-term departure is unfortunate, we are also committed to a smooth transition and steadfast continuity of our mission to assist state insurance regulators."

Then, just two weeks later, Poolman, who is also insurance commissioner for the North Dakota Insurance Department, decided to step down, citing personal reasons. "We are disappointed to hear of Commissioner Poolmans decision, but certainly understand his reasons," Weatherford said. "His stepping down now allows us to move forward quickly with new officers, ensuring that our organization provides the same high level of leadership and service to consumers, policyholders, regulators and the industry for which the NAIC has always been known."

The vote for a new president, vice president and secretary-treasurer will take place on Sept. 12 at the plenary session in Anchorage, Alaska.