Connecticut Senate approves new insurance commissioner
The Connecticut Senate has approved Josh Hershman as the state’s new insurance commissioner.
Hershman has been serving as interim commissioner since December.
“I am honored to be appointed by Gov. Ned Lamont and confirmed by the Senate to serve as Connecticut’s insurance commissioner,” said Hershman in a press release. “While I have had the privilege of serving in this role since December, this confirmation represents an important milestone, and I am grateful for the trust placed in me. I am also proud to continue the strong work of former Commissioner Andrew Mais.
“Each day reinforces how essential our work is to Connecticut residents and businesses. I remain focused on advancing solutions that improve the affordability and availability of insurance across all lines while supporting innovation that strengthens our markets and delivers better outcomes for consumers.”
The release states that Hershman has experience in insurance regulation, operations, and innovation. This includes previously serving as the chief executive officer of the Immigrant Life Insurance Company of America and as the executive director of openIDL, a Linux Foundation project that focused on advancing insurance data standards.
From 2019 to 2022, he also served as deputy commissioner and chief operating officer of CID, “leading efforts to modernize operations and strengthen regulatory processes,” the release says.
Earlier in his career, Hershman practiced law, advising clients in highly regulated industries, according to the release.
His LinkedIn profile says he worked as an advisor and attorney for Hershman Legal Group.
Under a heading titled “Mission and Vision,” the LinkedIn page states, “Extensive advising Insurance and InsurTech C-suite executives in large carriers, agents/brokers, captives and start-ups on the regulatory environment and risk assessments.”
The page also describes him as a senior regulator, compliance officer, operator, and counsel “who brings a unique combination of insurance sector regulatory, legal, and operational expertise to help propel growth while managing risk. Deep knowledge of all insurance lines and products, including P&C, homeowners, auto, title, medical malpractice, life, and health.”
Hershman also appears to have been a deputy treasurer and counsel for Lamont’s gubernatorial campaign in 2018.
Images
Featured image: Josh Hershman (Provided by the Connecticut Insurance Department)