March 11, 2019—PHILADELPHIA— Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company (PLM), the largest mutual insurer dedicated to wood-related businesses, has announced the hiring of John Kennealy as vice president of claims. An industry veteran, John brings years of experience in insurance claims and risk management to the PLM claims team.
In his new position, John will be responsible for the overall management of the claims operation, including handling complicated litigation, analyzing insurance contracts, and developing new strategies for keeping loss adjustment expenses down.
“John’s considerable background in the industry and leadership experience make him an excellent addition to our team,” said John Smith, president and chief executive officer of PLM. “We are looking forward to the valuable insight and fresh perspective he has to share with PLM’s highly-qualified claims team.”
Prior to joining PLM, John served as director of the major litigation unit for commercial claims at CNA Insurance Company. As such, he worked with a team on high-severity losses, partnering with claims managers and other claims professionals in setting reserves, determining claims strategy, and settlement negotiation. His time in management roles, including at CNA and ACE, which has since merged with Chubb, has given John extensive leadership experience in the industry.
John is a graduate of Rutgers University and has his ARM designation through the Insurance Institute of America. He serves as a faculty member of the Insurance Society of Philadelphia.
About Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual
Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company (PLM) (www.plmins.com) is a nationally recognized property and casualty insurance carrier serving the lumber, woodworking and building material industries. Backed by more than 100 years of experience, the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based company protects over 5,000 businesses nationwide with property, general liability, inland marine, business automobile, cyber, commercial excess liability and equipment breakdown coverages.