Douglas Jackson, current president of Southwest Claims Service and the Society of Registered Professional Adjusters (RPA), was crowned the 2008 Claim Professional of the Year at a special award ceremony held on Tuesday, June 10, 2008 during the 12th Annual ACE America 's Claim Event. Sponsored by New York-based law firm Smith & Brink, P.C. and Claims Magazine, the award recognizes overall excellence in the claim-handling arena. Recipients are heavily involved in continuing education initiatives that foster a sense of commitment to not only upholding the integrity of current industry practices but also improving upon them.

Throughout his more than 30 years of experience as a claim professional, Jackson has worked as a staff adjuster with both commercial and residential carriers. His Southern California-based company is an independent insurance adjusting firm that he started with his wife, Elaine. It provides claim adjusting and consultation services to commercial and personal line insurers, with a primary focus on property and casualty lines.

In a letter nominating Jackson for the award, Peter Schifrin, California Association of Independent Insurance Adjusters (CAIIA) president, cited the RPA president's tireless efforts to rejuvenate the RPA board, all of which has culminated in an increase in membership and heightened organizational credibility. Schifrin also emphasized successful education initiatives and other contributions.