As California’s surplus lines market grows, one of the industry groups that has operated alongside it is marking a long-running presence.
The California Insurance Wholesalers Association is celebrating its 35th year since incorporation, having been formally established in 1991. The association was formed in the aftermath of regulatory changes triggered by Proposition 103 and the introduction of elected Insurance Commissioners in California, a period that reshaped how insurers, managing general agents, and wholesale intermediaries operated in the state.
CIWA was founded by Marv Uritz, Norm Levine, and Dave Anderson, who identified the need for an organization focused on the specific regulatory and operational concerns of wholesale insurance professionals. From the outset, the group provided a forum for discussing legislative issues while also facilitating professional interaction among members.
The association’s governance over the past 35 years has included more than 25 presidents and 85 board members. In 2025, CIWA announced a leadership transition, with Yana Connors assuming the role of president as part of broader changes to its executive board.
“What makes CIWA special after 35 years is the quality of connections our members make. We’re focused on creating an environment where California’s wholesale insurance professionals can build real relationships, learn from each other, and support the next generation of industry leaders. That personal touch has been our foundation since day one, and it’s what keeps our community strong,” Connors said.
CIWA said its current membership level is the highest in its history, a development that coincides with continued expansion in the surplus lines market. Data from AM Best shows the market reached nearly $130 billion in direct premiums in 2024, following its move past the $100 billion mark the year before.
In recent years, CIWA has added programs focused on specific segments of the workforce and industry topics, including CIWA Future for early-career professionals, CIWA Women for women in wholesale and carrier distribution, and an Insurtech Committee that addresses technology-related issues in the excess and surplus lines market.
The association plans to mark the anniversary during its Summer Forum from July 19 to 21, 2026 in Monterey, California. Previous Summer Forums have featured speakers from outside the insurance sector, including former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner at the 2025 event. Additional details about the 2026 forum are available through CIWA’s website.
