The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has named Jeffrey C. Johnston as its permanent chief executive officer, effective 1 June 2026, confirming the transition from his role as interim CEO. Johnston takes the helm of the 155-year-old insurance standard-setting organisation, which is governed by the chief insurance regulators from the 50 US states, the District of Columbia, and five US territories. Virginia Insurance Commissioner and NAIC President Scott A. White says Johnston has demonstrated the qualities needed to lead the organisation on a long-term basis. "Jeff has provided steady, thoughtful leadership as interim CEO and has earned the confidence of NAIC Members," White says. "He has a deep understanding of the state-based system and the importance of collaboration. I'm confident Jeff will continue to support our Members and NAIC staff as we advance our shared priorities and serve insurance consumers today and well into the future." As CEO, Johnston will oversee NAIC operations and work closely with members to advance the organisation's strategic priorities, which include financial oversight, data modernisation, resilience, and responsible innovation. Johnston brings more than 30 years of experience in insurance regulation, financial solvency oversight, and association management. He began his career at the Kansas Insurance Department, where he held senior analytical and supervisory roles overseeing insurers across all major lines of business. He later gained private-sector experience at GE Capital's Employers Reinsurance Corporation, before leading a national regulatory consulting firm during the global financial crisis, advising regulators on complex solvency matters and insurer recoveries. During his 25-year tenure at the NAIC, Johnston has held multiple senior leadership roles, including chief regulatory affairs officer and chief financial officer. In those positions, he rebuilt and led core regulatory teams and oversaw major initiatives spanning life actuarial modernisation, capital markets and debt securities, accreditation, and international engagement. Johnston says he is committed to continuing the work of supporting state regulators and the consumers they serve. "I'm honoured to continue serving the NAIC and its Members in this role," he says. "The NAIC's strength comes from collaboration between Members and our staff, and I look forward to working together to support state insurance regulators and the consumers they serve." Johnston holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from Emporia State University and is a Certified Association Executive through the American Society of Association Executives. He is based in Kansas City, Missouri.
