IIABNY CEO, Poppa, to retire at end of 2016

DeWITT — Richard (Dick) Poppa, president and CEO of Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of New York (IIABNY), will retire at the end of 2016.

Poppa (pronounced Poppy) has led the organization for nearly 20 years, IIABNY said in a news release issued April 19.

“When you say the name Dick Poppa to industry peers, a smile immediately appears. From the warmth and unwavering integrity in which he handles all people and business, to his tireless work ethic and forward-thinking strategic planning — his reputation proceeds him,” Todd Rockefeller, chair of the IIABNY board of directors, said in the release. “Dick has dedicated his life’s work to strengthening the Independent Agency channel and his impact has been felt around the country. IIABNY has been blessed to benefit from his talent and inspiration for almost two decades of a storied career. He will be greatly missed.”

A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Poppa has served as IIABNY’s CEO since 1996. 

Prior to that, he was senior VP and COO for the Independent Insurance Agents Association of America, executive VP of the Independent Insurance Agents of Indiana, and administrative VP of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of California, according to IIABNY. 

In addition to his work with IIABNY, Poppa was a catalyst for, and held a leadership position with, TrustedChoice.com, a website that helps the user “choose the right insurance company and insurance agent,” according to the website. 

“It has been my privilege to serve independent agents, innovate with an incredible team, and I’m proud of the work we have accomplished together,” Poppa said in the news release. “The true highlight of my career has been the amazing people we have been blessed to spend time with and now call our life-long friends. In my life, that means the most.” 

The IIABNY board of directors has formed a search committee and selected a national search firm to help choose Poppa’s successor, IIABNY said.