A HUGE thank you to all of you that joined us for our 36th annual captive insurance conference this past August 10th – 12th. With 500 captive professionals in attendance from across the globe, the event received high marks for its substantive opportunities to conduct business, learn and make meaningful connections.

The conference featured fresh ways for service providers to present their newest innovations and connect with potential clients, both during “Ignite Talks” and while hosting their “Solution Labs”. These features were crafted by VCIA to offer alternatives to the typical online exhibit hall and create an energetic approach for all parties to learn and connect.

The Association presented two significant awards this year, for two well-deserving captive professionals. The 2021 Industry Service Award was presented to Mike Meehan of Milliman, a true friend of everyone in the captive insurance industry. Mike was on the VCIA board of directors when I came on almost 12 years ago and provided me with his friendship and guidance as I worked my way thought those first years.  The Captive Crusader Award was presented this year to Sandi Prescott of Performa. Sandi is head of Performa’s client service, with primary responsibility for the firm’s global client relationships.  The moment she came into the captive insurance industry, Sandi has been involved with the success of VCIA on many fronts. She really showed her chops by chairing VCIA’s Conference Task Force a few years ago – something that Mike accomplished (are you seeing a pattern here?).

A big thanks to all our volunteers, speakers, and sponsors for which we would not have had a successful event. A special thank you to Keynote Speakers Michael Pieciak, Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation and Hank Watkins, Regional Director & President, Americas for Lloyd’s of London, who discussed the implications of systemic risk. Altogether the event had an energetic synergy which was a breath of fresh air for attendees, panelists, and sponsors.

I look forward to seeing many of you at our in-person VCIA Mixers and other events beginning this October.  Until then, stay well!

Rich Smith
VCIA President