Nevada appoints former Washington OIC leader as insurance commissioner
Ned Gaines has been appointed as commissioner of the Nevada Division of Insurance, effective Oct. 6, according to an announcement made by Department of Business and Industry (DBI) Director Kristopher Sanchez.
The DBI is responsible for appointing the state’s insurance commissioner. Gaines has served as commissioner in an acting capacity since July 2.
Scott Kipper resigned from the position the same day. A reason for his resignation was not given.
Gaines joined the Division of Insurance in April as chief deputy commissioner.
“Serving Nevadans as commissioner is an extraordinary honor,” said Gaines upon his appointment. “I am committed to ensuring Nevadans have access to a fair insurance market and to strengthening the division’s work on consumer education, market oversight, and industry engagement. I look forward to continuing our work with the Department of Business and Industry, insurance providers, and community partners to protect consumers and promote a stable insurance market for Nevada.”
He has more than 25 years of experience in the insurance industry, the release says.
Gaines previously worked for the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner for 12 years, where he served various leadership roles, according to the release. His most recent position was deputy commissioner of rates, forms, and provider networks.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Gaines was previously the compliance manager for Grange Insurance Association. He has also worked for Farmers Insurance Group as a special claims representative, for First Acceptance Insurance as a claims manager, and for State Farm as an insurance agent.
Gaines is currently a member of the Insurance Regulatory Examiners Society and the Association of Insurance Compliance Professionals, where he served as president of the Northwest Chapter.
“Ned’s extensive experience in the insurance industry and as a regulator will be an asset to the state as we continue to navigate a complex and evolving insurance landscape,” said Sanchez in the release. “Through his leadership and engagement with all stakeholders, we must work together to find and implement solutions that work for all Nevadans.”
The release notes that Gaines is charged with protecting the rights of consumers and the public’s interest in dealing with the insurance industry.
“Under his leadership, the division will maintain its focus on helping Nevadans navigate insurance choices, reviewing rates and forms to ensure compliance with state law, and expanding public resources to help consumers understand coverage options and how to seek assistance through the division’s consumer services section,” the release says. “Accessibility and responsiveness to consumers and industry stakeholders will remain top priorities for the division.”
Images
Photo of Ned Gaines, acting Nevada Division of Insurance commissioner. (Courtesy of the Nevada Department of Business and Industry)