It is hard to believe that the Vermont Captive Insurance Association (VCIA), host of the premier captive insurance conference in the US and among the top captive trade associations in the world, began with an eight-person luncheon at the Windjammer in South Burlington in 1985.
Marsh was fortunate to have a seat at the table, engaging with likeminded captive managers about the possibilities ahead for captive insurance in Vermont. The modest gathering marked the inception of an organization that would grow to become a pillar of the captive insurance industry.
Reflecting on four decades of captive excellence
Forty years later, VCIA is world-renowned for its leadership, educational and networking opportunities, and legislative advocacy for captive interests in Vermont and beyond. Through the VCIA’s ongoing commitment, Vermont has not only become the leading US captive domicile, but also the world’s largest and most desirable.
From educational programs that empower captive owners and managers, to the VCIA Annual Conference — which attracts the world’s largest concentration of industry leaders and stakeholders — VCIA has built a powerful community to champion its members’ interests.
With a focus on education, professional development, and relationship-building, members gain access to a dynamic community, empowering them to engage meaningfully with peers and prioritize innovation to keep pace with the industry’s rapid growth.
Highlighting our partnership’s proudest moments
Marsh has been a steadfast supporter of VCIA throughout its journey, providing expertise and insights to help shape the captive insurance market.
“When I served as treasurer for VCIA, I would drive to Diane Leach’s house to sort through financial documents from our early office space — her first floor which had a gorgeous view in Stowe,” Edward Precourt, US Client Services Leader at Marsh Captive Solutions, shared. “As a native Vermonter, it has been incredible to witness and participate in the evolution of this organization.”
As the world’s largest captive manager, Marsh is proud to have supported VCIA’s goal of advancing captive interests. Among the many milestones over the years, a few rise to the fore:
· Since VCIA’s inception, 20-plus Marsh colleagues have held leadership positions as board members, conference chairpersons, and legislative and finance committee members, along with other roles.
· Marsh colleagues have long contributed to VCIA’s Annual Conference as members, sponsors, exhibitors, and guest speakers, as well at multiple Road Shows and even a Mexico City Trade Mission.
· VCIA and Marsh worked to help the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation digitize operations and move towards an electronic model of recordkeeping, using technology developed and used by our captive management teams. This forward-looking mindset was crucial in terms of efficiency and resources, and remains important as new technologies emerge and impact the captive industry.
· Currently we are helping with VCIA’s strategic initiatives, which commenced in 2024, specifically devoted to increasing the value for members and the captive industry at large.
· We have facilitated numerous membership connections, ranging from clients to service providers and the Vermont Department of Finance and Management, in our role as a captive manager, captive owner, and through Marsh McLennan’s other global businesses.
The collaboration between VCIA and Marsh has enhanced Vermont’s visibility as a leading domicile for captive insurance, while contributing to the industry’s growth nationally and globally. Together, we have navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and fostered a community that values knowledge-sharing, creativity, and resilience.
Paving the way for 40 more years of success
Reflecting on the milestones that have defined the last four decades, we look ahead with optimism and determination. With a commitment to captive excellence and a focus on empowering captive owners and managers, we are excited to continue navigating the evolving world of captive insurance —and proud to do it alongside VCIA.
To learn more about the possibilities available through captive insurance, speak with a Marsh representative by emailing us at:marshcaptivesolutions@marsh.com.
