DUBLIN, OH (May 2026) – The Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA) has announced a new Chief Executive Officer designate, with Joe Fullenkamp set to join the OIA team effective July 1, 2026.
Fullenkamp brings nearly 30 years of experience in personal and commercial lines insurance, most recently serving in leadership roles at Encova Insurance. His deep industry knowledge and strong agency and carrier relationships position him well to lead OIA into its next chapter.
“Joe’s extensive leadership in the insurance industry and his vision for the independent agency system make him the strategic and operational leader Ohio agents need,” said Andy Stephey, OIA Board Chair. “We are excited to welcome a leader with such strong experience working within carriers and understanding the evolving needs of agents in Ohio and beyond.”
“I’m incredibly excited for the future of OIA under Joe’s leadership,” said Jeff Smith, current OIA Chief Executive Officer. “His background and thought leadership will bring tremendous value to our members and the broader insurance community.”
Fullenkamp will lead OIA’s continued efforts and traction in supporting members with business solutions, market access, advocacy, and resources to serve their communities. To support a smooth transition of association leadership, Fullenkamp will be working closely alongside Smith through 2027. This leadership transition reflects OIA’s continued commitment to modeling an effective leadership perpetuation to best serve Ohio’s independent agents and advance the future of the association.
For more information, please contact Brian Lawrence, Senior Director, Talent & Professional Development, at brian@ohioinsuranceagents.com. Download the PDF
-END-
About OIA
Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA) is the collective voice of nearly 1,000 independent agencies that employ nearly 10,000 Ohioans and protect hundreds of thousands of Ohio consumers through personalized insurance plans. OIA members write 89 percent of the commercial insurance policies and 46 percent of personal insurance policies in Ohio. OIA promotes, progresses, and protects the professional advice and guidance only independent insurance agents provide. The association helps agents by providing professional consulting services, agency valuation and succession planning and other business solutions and industry thought leadership.
