CIAA: Message From The President

It was with enthusiasm and solidarity that CIAA members recently descended upon one of Canada’s finest gems — fondly referred to as “The Island” — for the Association’s 24th Annual General Meeting and Conference. Convention chairman Tom DeLong and his committee are to be commended for putting together an impressive program of business and social activities providing delegates with a truly memorable “Maritime” experience. Having been born, raised and commenced my adjusting career in Atlantic Canada, I was somewhat sentimental and considered it a good omen to assume the role of national president where my roots are.

Over the last 55 years, CIAA has continually evolved ensuring independent adjusters are well represented at every level. Past presidents and their executives have done a tremendous job in trumpeting the accolades and benefits of the association and the loss adjusting profession. Much has been accomplished as evidenced by the regional and executive committee reports presented at the 2008 annual general meeting.

As a commitment to the membership, the incoming executive intends to continue to pursue resolution of the goals and initiatives outlined in the strategic plan. We are dedicated to ongoing promotion and communication between the association and the membership, potential members, related industry associations and regulators.

Continuous collaboration and correlations with our trading partners is vital as our industry faces the very real impact of a talent shortage in the not to distant future. Recent studies have revealed alarming statistics, not only with regard to the shortage of independent adjusters, but the entry to exit ratio in the insurance industry as a whole has been in steady decline for some time. Recruitment and training initiatives are essential and the responsibility must be accepted and shared collectively. Traditionally, Insurance carriers have found the independent adjuster a useful resource in times of catastrophes and overflows of work, however now recognize that they cannot reasonably expect qualified adjusters to be there or respond favourably if they have to rely almost exclusively on seasonal overflow. Similarly, rates must be sufficient to attract new talent into the profession and allow for the investments in technology and ongoing professional development required to run a truly professional company. If we, as professionals, are to partner with our customers, we must demonstrate a willingness to contribute to, rather than detract from, the industry. I believe that membership in the Canadian Independent Adjusters’ Association does just that.

For years, professionals have recognized the need for coherence in representing their collective interests and the incoming national executive welcomes the coming year with energy and zeal! •