Utica National Insurance Group’s first woman CEO ready to start position

NEW HARTFORD, N.Y. — Utica National Insurance Group is ready for its first female CEO Kristen H. Martin to take the reins on July 1 when Richard P. Creedon retires after 26 years with the company. Martin joined Utica National in 2001 as an examiner before several promotions including corporate secretary and executive VP in 2013, director of underwriting operations in 2014, and executive VP and chief operating officer in 2016. She most recently served as president and chief operating officer. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead an amazing team and work closely with the independent agents who represent our company toward one goal — to help our insureds protect what’s important to them,” Martin said in a news release. “At the same time, I’m excited about helping our company continue to grow, be successful, and contribute to the wellbeing of the communities where we live and work.” Under her leadership, Martin said the Utica National Group Foundation will continue to be actively involved in the community supporting events like the Utica National Kids Run and Boilermaker 5K race in Utica and aiding nonprofit organizations through grants and volunteer efforts. Martin holds a law degree from Albany Law School, a bachelor’s degree in economics and government from St. Lawerence University, and the Associate in Claims professional designation. She has been active in several community and academic organizations and was elected to the New York Insurance Association’s board of directors in 2020. Creedon, who served as CEO and chairman of the board, will remain chairman of the board following his retirement. The Utica National Insurance Group is a group of insurance companies providing personal and commercial insurance products and services sold through more than 2,500 independent insurance agents. Its principal company, Utica Mutual Insurance Company, was founded in 1914.