VCIA reflects on 40 years of success—maps road ahead

The Vermont Captive Insurance Association’s (VCIA) leadership celebrated and reflected on the successes of the organisation as they addressed delegates in the context of the organisation’s 40th annual conference, taking place in Burlington, Vermont, this week. They also shared insights on the road ahead.

Departing chief executive Kevin Mead, Board Chair Gail Newman, and incoming president Ian Davis addressed attendees, sharing insights on the industry’s progress and the association’s strategic direction as it embarks on a new chapter.

Mead, concluding his tenure as CEO, set an upbeat tone to the conference, welcoming attendees to the milestone event. Mead proudly noted Vermont’s leading role in the captive insurance industry: “Our brave little state has just surpassed 1,400 licensed captives, and we are once again leading the way.” 

He expressed gratitude to sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and volunteers, calling the annual conference “a heroic act of collaboration” that brings together the community to share ideas and innovation. Mead also acknowledged the lengthy planning process behind the conference: “It takes 11 months to put this together, and we’re grateful to everyone who contributed.”

Following Mead’s remarks, Newman took the podium as board chair. She reflected on her eight years attending the conference and the inclusive nature of the VCIA community. 

“If you’re new here, or even a veteran of this conference, you’re in the right place,” she told a crowd with more than 300 first-time attendees. Newman highlighted the association’s recent listening tour and strategic planning process designed to capture member feedback and guide future growth.

She reserved special praise for Mead’s leadership. “On the eve of his retirement, I would be remiss not to recognise Kevin for his impact over the past three years,” Newman said. “His dedication to strategic planning and onboarding an incredible staff has set the association up for continued success.”

Celebrate 40 Years of VCIA!

As the captive community gathers in Burlington for the VCIA Annual Conference, explore our special 40th Anniversary Edition. Packed with exclusive interviews, regulator insights, and reflections from industry leaders, it’s a tribute to four decades of innovation, connection, and leadership in Vermont’s captive market.

Read this Special Edition now.

Did you get value from this story?  Sign up to our free daily newsletters and get stories like this sent straight to your inbox.