Mark Suhr is new PIA president

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 1 – Mark Suhr, CIC, CPIA, of Seward, Nebraska, was sworn in as President of the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) during the organization’s recent board of directors meeting. He succeeds Ariel Rivera, MBA, CIC, CPIA, of Jacksonville, Florida, who will now serve as Immediate Past President.

Suhr was sworn in alongside fellow national officers: David Gorman, CPIA, of Dallas, TX, as President-Elect; Vonda Copeland, CPIA, CWCU of Manhattan, KS as Vice President/ Treasurer; and Albert S. Pappalardo, Jr. MBA, CIC of New Orleans, LA as Secretary/Assistant Treasurer. Each officer will serve a one-year term through September 30, 2026.

Suhr is making technology a key focus area for his term -- helping agents harness new tools, adapt to rapid change, and stay competitive in an evolving marketplace.

“AI is evolving the way all industries and businesses operate including insurance and the independent agency,” said Suhr. “It is altering the way agents connect with clients and deliver service. PIA is already doing great work helping agents stay ahead of the curve from the Tech Council to the programs produced by the PIA National Carrier Council. I want to keep this momentum going providing resources and tools making it easier for agents to utilize emerging solutions to improve their operations.”

PIA CEO Mike Skiados added, “Despite ongoing challenges in the industry, this is also a time of opportunity for agents who have the right resources and support. Rising premiums and non-renewals are straining client relationships. Some risks are getting harder to place. And there is still a talent shortage. Over the past year, we have been listening to our members to learn what we can do to help and what matters most to them. We are turning those insights into action delivering the resources and programs that they want. I look forward to working alongside Mark to enhance benefits to our membership and assist them as they work to overcome some of the hurdles they’re facing.”

Founded in 1931, PIA is a national trade association representing professional independent insurance agents and their employees, specializing in coverage for automobiles, homes, and businesses. For more information, visit www.pianational.org.