NAIC Appoints Communications Veteran Melissa Jackson to Navigate Evolving Insurance Landscape

Kansas City, MO – November 3, 2025 – The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) today announced the appointment of Melissa Jackson as its Director of Communications, effective October 27, 2025. Jackson, a seasoned communications professional with a strong background in financial public affairs, joins the NAIC from the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, where she served as Vice President of Public Affairs.

Her arrival comes at a pivotal moment for the insurance industry, which is grappling with rapid technological advancements, increasing climate-related risks, and evolving consumer expectations. The NAIC, responsible for overseeing state-based insurance regulation, is prioritizing clear and effective communication to ensure stability and consumer protection amidst these changes.

“Melissa’s experience spearheading strategic communications and leading dynamic teams will be invaluable as we continue to amplify the importance of state-based insurance regulation,” said NAIC Interim CEO Jeff Johnston in a statement. NAIC President and North Dakota Insurance and Securities Commissioner Jon Godfread added, “We look forward to Melissa highlighting the regulators’ work to protect consumers and ensure strong, stable, and resilient insurance markets.”

A Focus on Proactive Communication

Jackson’s appointment signals a heightened emphasis on proactive and transparent communication from the NAIC. Sources familiar with the organization suggest a need to bolster public understanding of increasingly complex regulatory issues and address potential concerns related to new technologies like artificial intelligence and data analytics within the insurance sector.

“The insurance industry is undergoing a period of unprecedented change,” explains a financial regulatory analyst, speaking anonymously. “Communicating effectively with consumers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers is more critical than ever. The NAIC needs to be able to explain complex regulations in a clear and accessible way, and manage the narrative around emerging risks.”

Jackson’s background at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City is particularly relevant in this regard. Her responsibilities there likely involved managing sensitive public communications during times of economic uncertainty and navigating complex financial regulations. This experience will be crucial in addressing potential public anxieties surrounding issues like cyber risk, data privacy, and the financial stability of insurance companies.

Navigating the Insurtech Disruption

The rise of insurtech companies presents both opportunities and challenges for the insurance industry. While these companies can drive innovation and improve efficiency, they also raise regulatory concerns related to data security, algorithmic bias, and consumer protection. The NAIC is actively working to develop appropriate regulatory frameworks for insurtech, and clear communication will be essential to ensure a smooth transition.

“One of the biggest challenges facing regulators is keeping pace with technological advancements,” notes a technology consultant specializing in insurance. “Communicating effectively about the risks and benefits of new technologies is critical to building trust and fostering innovation.”

Jackson’s role will be to translate these complex issues into accessible information for a diverse audience. This includes educating consumers about the benefits of insurtech, addressing concerns about data privacy, and working with industry stakeholders to develop responsible innovation strategies.

Climate Risk and Consumer Education

Another critical area for the NAIC is addressing the growing impact of climate change on the insurance industry. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe, leading to increased insurance claims and potential financial instability. The NAIC is working to assess and mitigate these risks, and consumer education will be a key component of this effort.

“Consumers need to understand how climate change is impacting insurance rates and coverage options,” says a consumer advocate. “The NAIC has a responsibility to provide clear and accurate information about these risks and empower consumers to make informed decisions.”

Jackson’s communication strategy will likely include initiatives to raise awareness about climate risk, promote disaster preparedness, and encourage consumers to adopt resilient building practices.

Building on Past Communication Efforts

While details of the previous director’s focus areas remain limited publicly, sources suggest a need for a more proactive and outward-facing communication strategy. Past efforts were described as reactive, often focused on responding to media inquiries rather than proactively shaping the narrative around key issues. Jackson’s appointment signals a shift towards a more strategic and comprehensive communication approach.

“The NAIC needs to be a thought leader in the insurance industry,” explains a regulatory affairs specialist. “That requires a proactive communication strategy that anticipates challenges and opportunities, and effectively engages with stakeholders.”

Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Jackson will lead the NAIC’s Communications Division, which supports the organization’s members across the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories. Her initial priorities will likely include developing a comprehensive communication plan, strengthening relationships with media outlets, and enhancing the NAIC’s digital presence. The appointment marks a crucial step for the NAIC as it navigates a rapidly evolving insurance landscape and strives to protect consumers in an increasingly complex world.

Contact:
Erica Chester
12403195001
echester@naic.org
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF INSURANCE COMMISSIONERS