Big I New York taps Lombardo as AVP of learning, development

DeWITT — Big I New York says Jim Lombardo has joined the association as its assistant vice president (AVP) of learning and development. 

Lombardo most recently served as chief operating manager at AmeriCU Insurance Services, LLC.

Big I New York describes itself as the state’s oldest insurance producer trade association. Insurance agents and brokers are commonly referred to as “insurance producers,” the organization said. Big I New York was previously known as the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York Inc. (IIABNY).

Lombardo will be responsible for expanding the association’s education and research offerings to meet the “needs and expectations of 21st century learning,” Big I New York said in a July 23 news release. 

As AVP of learning and development, Lombardo will be teaching and supporting agents, along with helping the insurance industry develop new talent. Big I New York will offer classes and webinars, utilizing technology for “ease of registration and participation,” and reaching into schools and colleges to “encourage the next generation of insurance-agency personnel,” per its release.

“Simply put, I want Big I New York to be the first and only place where any independent agent goes for education, knowledge, research, and support,” Lombardo said. “Our education department will leverage our first-class research and government relations areas to create content our agent/members can use and apply to their everyday operations.”

Lombardo has more than 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, including serving as an adjunct instructor for Mohawk Valley Community College, Bryant and Stratton, Utica School of Commerce, Keuka College Accelerated Studies for Adults Program, Le Moyne College, and Big I New York, the organization said. He earned his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Geneseo and his MBA degree from SUNY Empire State College.

“Jim’s successful track record on the carrier and agency side coupled with his experience and passion for insurance education are unique,” Lisa Lounsbury, president and CEO of Big I New York, added in the release. “He is well positioned to understand the development needs within the industry and deliver on innovative ways to serve today and tomorrow’s learner.”

Big I New York says it works to represent the educational, political, and business interests of its more than 1,750 insurance agencies and their 13,000-plus employees.