The California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is excited to welcome Chris Gray as its new insurance programs manager. Gray brings nearly two decades of industry experience and deep familiarity with the Authority’s operations to his new role.
“Chris’ extensive experience with our programs makes him an excellent addition to our team,” said Chief Executive Officer Alex Smith. “His understanding of our services and first-hand knowledge of member needs have enabled him to hit the ground running.”
After graduating from UC Santa Barbara in 2005, Gray began his career in insurance, eventually transitioning to a role at Alliant Insurance Services in 2013. While at Alliant, Gray worked closely with the California JPIA’s property, pollution and crime programs, becoming well acquainted with the Authority’s coverage structure and member services.
“After working with the California JPIA for the past nine years, transitioning to their team felt like a great fit,” said Gray. “My familiarity with the Authority’s coverages, members, staff and brokerage teams provides a strong foundation for the role.”
Gray was drawn to a career in insurance by its fundamental purpose: providing support during challenging times. “The stress related to claims or covered events can be very challenging,” he said. “Being able to provide assistance during tough times is particularly rewarding.”
Gray brings an ample skill set to his new role, including extensive policy knowledge and attention to detail. Additionally, his 20 years of insurance experience have given him insights into coverage nuances and industry dynamics.
Alongside a comprehensive industry background, Gray remains committed to staying current on the developments that will help best serve Authority members. “The insurance landscape is constantly evolving,” he said. “By closely monitoring insurance marketplace news and maintaining strong relationships with brokerage teams, I can help tailor the Authority’s coverage to meet members’ needs and exposures.”
His forward-thinking approach to anticipating market trends and member service aligns perfectly with the California JPIA’s mission to provide innovative risk management solutions and exceed member expectations while doing so.
Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.