OIA Member Benefits - 2024 Webinar Wednesday Series

Chief Executive Officer for Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA), a statewide association that is the leading advocate for insurance consumers, independent agents, IA carriers and a competitive insurance marketplace. OIA represents 1,400 independent insurance agencies and 12,000 insurance agents who are responsible for fulfilling 82 percent of the commercial insurance and 44 percent of the personal insurance and risk management needs of Ohio's businesses and citizens.

Energetic, detail-oriented team leader with over 15 years of experience in strategy development, project management, event coordination, marketing, community relations, employee development, and finance. A strong team player experienced leading cross-enterprise teams and influencing without authority on high-profile projects engaging senior leadership, while effectively creating solutions designed to exceed performance goals. 

A millennial in a risky business affectionally referred to as The Beyoncé of Insurance – it’s no secret that Ashley Fitzsimmons is an insurance nerd with a passion for this industry. She’s been in your shoes. After nearly a decade as the fourth generation in an independent agency near Scranton, PA, she’s taken a little detour to join the team at Ohio Insurance Agents in Columbus. Her love for her clients helped secure the 2018 National CSR of the Year award. She was even able to turn her misadventures in online dating into writing policies. In traveling to different events and meeting hundreds of agents, she realized she can make an even bigger impact by helping independent agents thrive all over the country. Connect with her. Use her as a resource. Or just have a martini with her – whatever it is, she’s here to help!

If you don't already know me, I’m the Director of Business Development the OIA.  I joined the staff in October of 2014 and have worked within the insurance industry for the past 13 years. I began my career in insurance as a Commercial Lines underwriter for a local carrier & after 6 years of underwriting I left the company side and became an independent agent like yourself. My areas of strength include insurance & coverage knowledge, sales & producer training, customer service training & enhancing carrier relationships. I look forward to learning more about your agency and assisting you further as we continue to transition into a modern insurance marketplace.

Seth isn't your average insurance guy.  He leverages his experience as a Personal and Commercial Lines Agent to serve as OIA's Member Experience Manager.  He brings not just knowledge, but a passion for the industry and coaching to empower member agencies.

Before diving into membership efforts, Seth championed client service and experience while leading Personal Lines team meetings and serving on other agency leadership teams. He kept his finger on the pulse of the industry by collaborating with carriers on policy updates, and even lent his expertise to the agency's marketing team. 

A true "insurance nerd", Seth enjoys interpreting policy language and proudly holds CIC, CRM, and TRA designations, and is currently on the path to achieving his CPCU.

Ashley Riley is the Director of Risk Management for Ohio Insurance Agents. She is responsible for helping independent agents protect one of their most significant assets, their businesses. Ashley is a seasoned professional with two decades of invaluable experience in the insurance industry with a track record that spans claims handling, underwriting, and adeptly leading the Agency Services team at OIA. 

One of Ashley's distinctive contributions is empowering independent agents to fortify their agencies against potential risks. Through knowledge, mentorship, and an understanding of the insurance landscape, Ashley has become a reliable ally for those navigating the complexities of risk management. Ashley's professional philosophy is rooted in a passion for safeguarding clients' interests. This attitude ensures the protection of assets and fosters enduring relationships with clients and colleagues alike. 

Ashley graduated from The Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree in risk management. She and her family currently reside in Gahanna; outside of work and spending time with her family, she enjoys traveling, cooking, and reading. 

Brian Lawrence is the Director of HR Solutions for Ohio Insurance Agents.  He is responsible for developing HR resources for the membership which includes over 1000 Independent Insurance agents across Ohio. His career includes over 23 years in Human resources, including 20 years at Nationwide. His tenure at Nationwide included included seven years as an HR Director/Strategic HR Business Partner providing support to a variety of executive leadership teams including P&C, Commercial and Non-Standard Customer Service & Operations, Life Insurance and Annuity Operations, & Nationwide Pet Insurance. A graduate from Ohio University, Brian has a Bachelor of Science. He resides in Gahanna with his husband, Matt and their two children. Both are passionate about their community and serve as licensed foster parents for over a decade. Outside of work and family, Brian enjoys coaching basketball and soccer and playing softball. He enjoys traveling and hiking and has visited 45 of the 50 United States!