May 17, 2019
Jenna Keesey
Cleveland-based senior underwriter, Cannasure Insurance Services LLC
Cleveland-based underwriter, AmTrust North America Inc.
For the insurance industry overall, I think a lot of signs are pointing toward a hardening market, but I don’t think we’re gearing up for the same increases we have seen in past cycles. There are a lot of electronic capabilities that are reducing costs and allowing for greater predictability. I think we are going to continue to see technology as a defining factor in the industry. Within the cannabis space specifically, we are looking at almost the opposite. There are going to be more and more players chomping at the bit, which can be really dangerous to insureds if the players do not have their best interest in mind and the market is not educated well enough to determine the deficiencies. Cannasure has been providing solutions within this sector since 2010 and they understand the risk, the exposure and the coverages, which is important to ensure trust within an emerging market.
I would like to see Cannasure continue to serve our carrier and retail partners as a leader in our space. I think the biggest goal would be to work with our partners to develop and provide coverages that are not yet available to cannabis-related risks. As more states vote for legalization, we will continue to stay abreast of each state’s adopted rules and regulations. Ultimately, I would love to see federal legalization that would allow a broader admitted product offering.
It is challenging to get people to see past the term “cannabis.” We are still providing insurance coverage to businesses in need of protection for their hard-earned interests. There have been amazing advancements in quick pace to move regulators in the right direction, but there is still a strong stigma and heavy doubts. Given the lack of readily available solutions, most risks fall into the nonadmitted world where coverage is not as heavily regulated. This can lead to confusing coverage limitations and exclusions, which could ultimately destroy the delicate trust our industry relies on. Education is so important to ensure that insureds aren’t just seeing a bottom dollar on the premium total, but to really understand what they are (or are not) paying for, especially when you approach a market base that may see insurance as nothing more than an expensive piece of paper.
I started out as a temp in processing at Century Insurance Co., a small excess and surplus insurer based in Westerville, Ohio. They encouraged education early on and I found myself really enjoying the beauty of the insurance industry and how everything works together to help society.
Get your (Chartered Property/Casualty Underwriter designation)! I had an excellent teacher early on who pushed me to work hard for great things and to truly be a leader in the industry. It can be difficult to find a great educator who will teach you everything you should know. The CPCU is an excellent resource to expand your knowledge and really challenge yourself to be an active participant in the industry. Getting my CPCU was one of the most rewarding experiences for me, and I am very involved with our local chapter as president-elect.
It’s hard to imagine a job outside the industry, especially when my current job is already a dream job for me. I’ve always enjoyed working with people and food, so I could see myself in the restaurant industry, serving people and spreading happiness.
International studies with a specialization in security and intelligence. I held an internship with Ohio Homeland Security as well as a student position with Ohio State University, risk and emergency management.
I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with a marketplace that thirsts for educated solutions. I hope I am able to help businesses gain access to adequate coverage for an affordable cost. Cannasure is a leading MGA in the cannabis space and I look forward to helping the group continue to achieve great results with its insurer and retail insurance partners.
Jaegerschnitzel mit Bratkartoffeln. I spent my junior/senior year living in Germany (my father is a retired Army colonel, West Point grad, 1980). I really miss the food!
I have always been a fan of the gritty, melancholy styling of Chuck Palahniuk. And “Harry Potter.”
I enjoy knitting and crocheting. There is something comforting in the mathematical consistency through the creation of a project. I also enjoy cooking and I rarely follow a recipe exactly.
“The Good Place,” with Kristen Bell and Ted Danson. I love the wholesome, whimsical nature and I find the plot to be very thought-provoking. The first season has a great twist!
If I’m not outside enjoying some fresh air in a local park, I enjoy knitting at home with my Maine coon cat while my husband practices guitar, catching a break before heading out for festivities in downtown Cleveland.
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