Risk Strategies has appointed Jim Schmidt as commercial lines leader for the firm’s operations in the western region. In his new role at the specialty national insurance brokerage and risk management firm, Schmidt will be responsible for forming a regional strategy in Risk Strategies’ commercial property and casualty business unit, particularly focusing on revenue growth, client experience, people strategies and market relationships. Schmidt previously served as director of business development for Associated Agencies, before which he was commercial lines manager at USI Insurance Services and vice president at Arthur J. Gallagher. From his past roles, Schmidt is experienced in a range of exposures, including captives, workers’ compensation, umbrella and excess, general and professional liability, and environmental. John Scroope, national director of retail operations at Risk Strategies, comments: “Jim is a strategic thinker who has substantial experience in successfully leading teams to exceed their goals and provide top notch client service at local, regional and national levels.” “We are excited for him to join Risk Strategies and continue to strengthen alignment and collaboration, driving our best-in-class client experience.” Risk Strategies has also recently appointed Erica Honig as compliance director for employee benefits, where she will be responsible for providing assistance, education and training to the firm’s life and health team. She previously served as senior global benefits manager at Fragomen law firm and global benefits compliance manager at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom. John Greenbaum, national employee benefits practice leader, comments: “The regulatory and legal requirements surrounding the employee benefits landscape are constantly evolving. Having an in-house compliance director will allow us to help our clients and prospects navigate those requirements as compliance issues related to group health plans become more and more complex.”
