Columbia Insurance is pleased to announce expanded leadership responsibilities for its regional vice presidents (RVPs). These officers will now lead key strategic initiatives in addition to their current roles as heads of their respective regional offices.

“This is an exciting step forward in our strategic growth journey,” said Keith Maciejewski, Columbia Insurance’s vice president and chief underwriting officer. “Our RVPs have been instrumental in shaping our vision and now they will lead the charge in executing it across critical areas.”

New assignments include:

• Shelly DeVore, vice president of agency distribution and management, will optimize agency engagement and develop new resources to support growth.
• Shane Martinez, vice president of middle market, will guide Columbia’s underwriting, service capabilities and engagement strategies for larger policyholders.
• Byron Smith, vice president of alternative markets, will identify innovative revenue opportunities and expand Columbia’s reach through non-traditional channels.

Todd Ruthruff, Columbia’s president and chief executive officer, said he is confident this team will help lead Columbia into an exciting new chapter. "Our regional vice presidents have consistently demonstrated our people-first vision which defines Columbia’s values. By expanding their roles, we’re empowering them to drive innovation and growth in ways that will deepen our partnerships and strengthen our market presence.”

Maciejewski agreed. “These experienced leaders bring deep expertise that will help us better serve our agents and policyholders. Their work will be essential as we continue to build capabilities with our new technology, launch additional offerings and expand our workers compensation business.”

According to Ruthruff, Columbia’s core priorities remain unchanged. “We are committed to delivering superior service and building strong, people-first partnerships. These expanded roles will help us do just that in new, strategic ways.”