NU Online News Service, Jan. 19, 3:05 p.m. EST

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America said four chief executives from leading independent insurance agent carriers will join this year's CEO panel during the association's annual Legislative Conference & Convention.

Moderated by Robert Rusbuldt, president and chief executive officer of the IIABA, panelists will include:

o Michael Hughes, president of Safeco.

o Michael LaRocco, Fireman's Fund president and CEO.

o Tom Motamed, CNA chairman and CEO.

o Liam McGee, The Hartford's chairman and CEO.

The event will be held March 5 at 8 a.m. at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, D.C.

"The Big 'I' CEO panel is a unique opportunity for some of the top insurance carriers in the country and our members to interact," said Mr. Rusbuldt in a statement. "We look forward to hearing insights from some of the top experts in the insurance industry."

The carrier panel will take place during the association's general session, and IIABA said it will involve "a discussion of some of the most important issues pressing independent insurance agents and the industry."

The general session will also include a state of the association address by IIABA chairman David Daniel.

The IIABA's Legislative Conference & Convention, March 3-5, will include in-depth issues briefing sessions and speakers discussing important insurance and national issues confronting lawmakers as well as agents and brokers. Agents will also have the opportunity to meet with their elected representatives in Congress.

Registration and hotel information is available online at www.independentagent.com by selecting the "Events and Conferences" link.