Bill Ross, chief executive officer of the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF), has announced his upcoming departure after 21 years of leading the organization.
During his tenure, Ross (pictured) oversaw significant growth across the foundation's US and UK operations. Under his leadership, IICF awarded more than $53 million in grants to nonprofit partners supporting children at risk, communities facing food and housing insecurity, disaster relief and recovery efforts.
The recent creation of an IICF Division in Canada expanded the organization's reach to six divisions: four regional divisions in the US, one in the UK, and one in Canada. Through these divisions, more than 250 insurance companies participate in local community initiatives.
In connection with Ross' departure, an executive search committee will be formed to define the profile of IICF's next chief executive and work with an executive search firm to identify potential internal and external candidates. The final candidate or candidates will be presented to the board of governors for approval.
During this period, Wendy Houser, chair of the IICF Board of Governors and president, US Wholesale and Specialty at Markel, will oversee foundation operations alongside her current role. A special committee, comprising current and past IICF board leaders, will also conduct a review of the foundation’s mission and operations to ensure its future strategy aligns with industry and community needs. The committee plans to seek input from various stakeholders as part of the process.
The IICF stated that transparency will guide the leadership transition and strategic review. The foundation expressed gratitude for the continued support of board companies, partners, and industry professionals as it moves into the next phase of its development.
Founded in 1994, IICF has long served as the philanthropic arm of the insurance industry, contributing more than $53 million in community grants and logging over 370,000 volunteer hours from 130,000 industry professionals.
