Independent Insurance Group Will Promote Three Executives
The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America announced a series of executive leadership changes starting in November.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in People
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The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America will promote Kevin Brandt and Janine Silvola to senior roles on November 1, 2026. Aimee Branham will also take on a new presidential role at the end of the year as two current executives depart the association.
Why it matters
These leadership changes mark a significant transition for the organization, which has represented over 25,000 agency locations since its founding in 1896. The succession plan ensures institutional continuity as senior staff retire or move on to new opportunities.
The association represents 25,000 agency locations and traces its history back to its founding in 1896. The outgoing executives, Steve Cocke and Mark Wolf, leave behind tenures of 23 and 20 years respectively.
The players
Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America
This trade association represents the interests of thousands of independent insurance agency locations across the United States.
Kevin Brandt
He is an internal leader transitioning from his previous responsibilities in IT and data management to the role of COO.
Janine Silvola
She is an experienced staff member who will ascend from the position of finance director to the role of CFO.
Steve Cocke
He is a long-serving executive departing the association after 23 years of service.
Mark Wolf
He is a veteran leader who will retire at the end of 2026 after a 20-year career with the organization.
The details
Kevin Brandt will pivot from his background in IT and data management to become COO, while Janine Silvola moves from her role as finance director to become CFO. Aimee Branham is set to become president of Big I Advantage, following a 24-year tenure at the organization.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: Steve Cocke departs his dual role as COO and CFO.
November 1, 2026: Kevin Brandt and Janine Silvola assume their new positions.
End of 2026: Aimee Branham becomes president and Mark Wolf retires.
Market Landscape
This leadership shuffle reflects broader trends in institutional succession planning within national trade organizations. The shift allows the group to maintain its competitive stance as it manages long-term institutional knowledge transfer.
These executive transitions are internal administrative moves that do not change retail insurance pricing or immediate service availability for policyholders. Members should expect consistent service levels as the association executes its long-term strategic plan.
The takeaway
Succession planning remains a critical component for large, historic trade groups to ensure stability during executive turnover. Organizations often manage transitions internally by grooming long-tenured staff for senior roles to maintain institutional wisdom.
Further reading
Find more updates regarding industry leadership changes in the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Insurance Business.
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