Sheppard Named S.C. Big ‘I’ President; Ruef Retiring Dec. 31

G. Frank Sheppard has been named president of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of South Carolina, assuming the leadership role from Leland C. Ruef, president, who retires Dec. 31.

As chief staff member, Sheppard will be responsible for association management issues. He brings 25 years of industry experience to the position. Sheppard joined the S.C. Big “I” staff in 1992 as the director of membership services where he oversaw member benefits and services, association for-profit activities, communications, events, and membership development. In 2003 Sheppard was named executive vice president in 2003.

“For nearly 14 years, I have had the pleasure of watching Sheppard grow in knowledge and ability,” Ruef said. “He has the capability to be a skillful manager and great spokesman for the association.”

Before joining the S.C. Big “I”, Sheppard worked as a producer with Goldsmith-Theodore Agency in Columbia, S.C.; as a broker with Marsh & McLennan Companies in Washington, D.C.; and as an adjuster with Nationwide Insurance Company in Columbia and Greenville, S.C. Sheppard is a native of Laurens, S.C.

Ruef is retiring from the S.C. Big “I” after more than 16 years as the chief executive officer of the association. He will continue to serve the S.C. Big “I” as director of State Government Relations on a part-time basis.

Topics Agencies South Carolina