Our Team

Rich Eknoian, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of World, oversees all World businesses including World Insurance Associates, World Investment Advisors, and Novatae Risk Group, and is primarily responsible for steering the organization towards sustained growth. Rich's strategic guidance ensures these entities are not only aligned with the organization's broader objectives but also positioned to adapt dynamically to market challenges. Through his strategic vision and expertise in finance, Rich and his team have created a leading and integrated platform with a broad set of innovative client offerings. 

Under Rich’s leadership, World has achieved remarkable growth and established itself as a formidable player in the insurance brokerage sector. Through a strategic blend of acquisitions and organic initiatives, the company has evolved into a diversified global financial organization, amassing more than $500 million in revenue. This expansion spans three robust and complementary business lines: retail insurance, wholesale insurance, and wealth management and retirement plan services.

Rich’s visionary approach has not only propelled the firm's profitability but also enhanced its market presence, allowing World to meet diverse client needs effectively. By leveraging synergies across its business lines, World is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging market opportunities and adapt to the evolving landscape of these industries. The focus on sustained growth through innovation and strategic partnerships exemplifies the company's commitment to excellence and long-term value creation for its stakeholders. As World continues to navigate the complexities of the marketplace, it remains dedicated to enhancing its service offerings and maintaining its trajectory of success in the years to come.

In addition to his operational acumen, Rich is committed to ethical business practices and community engagement. By fostering a culture of integrity and social responsibility, Rich and his team have not only achieved notable business success but have also made a positive impact on the communities they serve.

A seasoned executive with more than 30 years of senior leadership experience in the banking and insurance industries, Rich previously held prominent roles at Colonial American Bank and Frenkel & Company. He also has nearly a decade of experience as a sell-side M&A advisor specializing in the insurance broker sector.

Rich holds an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business and a BS and MT in Accountancy & Taxation from Villanova University.

Tom has 30+ years of leadership experience in the commercial insurance brokerage sector building high-performing teams and innovating market-leading solutions that contribute to sustainable growth and profitability. Tom presides over World’s retail insurance distribution business, utilizing his extensive expertise in broking to enhance the firm’s value-added services and achieve outstanding placement outcomes for clients. He partners closely with practice and division leaders to execute strategic initiatives and ensure World’s product and service offering keeps pace with market demands. 

Prior to joining the World team, Tom served as the President of Specialty and Commercial Business, and as a member of the North America Executive Committee at QBE North America. Before his tenure at QBE, he spent 28 years at broking giant Aon Risk Solutions, culminating in his position as Chief Executive Officer of Aon Broking, where he successfully guided global broking operations. His tenure at Aon included time as the CEO of their U.S. retail operation, during which he led more than 5,500 colleagues to enhance the division’s prominence, becoming the preeminent retail broker in the United States. 

Tom holds an MBA from Northwestern University at Kellogg School of Management and a BA in Finance from Drake University. He also holds professional designations as a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) and an Associate in Risk Management (ARM).

As Chief Operating Officer for World, Andrea is responsible for supporting World’s overall growth strategy, scaling the operating model, and delivering added value for clients, employees, and business partners. She partners with business leaders to define and develop best practices and efficiencies to support business lines and initiatives, optimize employee productivity, and continually improve the overall client experience.

Andrea has more than 30 years of insurance industry experience across operational leadership, business development, and client service and experience. Prior to joining World, she was the Head of Client Service Operations for Corporate Risk & Broking, North America for Willis Towers Watson (WTW). Prior to her time at WTW, she was a P&C Leader for USI. 

Andrea holds a BS in Political Science and Government from Northern Illinois University.

As World’s Chief Financial Officer, Renae is responsible for the financial management of the company. Her career spans 30 years of executive financial management, creating differentiating economic value, financial flexibility, and market shaping strategies. She has significant M&A background, industry operating experience at scale on a global basis, and capital management capability.  

Prior to joining World, Renae served as CFO/COO and interim CEO of Private Health Management, a clinically sophisticated healthcare navigation firm. Renae’s industry knowledge was built through her long career at Aon plc, ultimately serving as CFO for Aon’s largest business, U.S. Risk and Health Solutions. She is credited with delivering strong financial performance amid challenging revenue environments and leading the firm’s growth and efficiency initiatives with a keen eye to managing and mitigating risk.

Renae is a Certified Public Accountant and holds an MBA from St. Joseph’s University and a BA from the University of Pittsburgh. She completed Aon’s Executive Leadership Program at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business, is a member of the CFO Leadership Council, serves on the advisory board of Chief Executive Group’s Women Leaders CONNECT, and acts as an executive mentor for students at the University of Delaware’s Lerner School of Business.

In his role as General Counsel, Tim Robb has oversight of all legal functions across the business, including corporate governance, risk management, mergers and acquisitions, and litigation. With more than 20 years of legal experience in the insurance and financial services industry, Tim has established himself as a pivotal figure in navigating complex legal landscapes while driving strategic change within organizations. His extensive background equips him with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by legal and business teams, particularly in environments marked by accelerated expansion. Throughout his career, Tim has demonstrated a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in scaling operations while ensuring compliance and risk mitigation, making him a valuable asset to World.

Prior to joining World, Tim served as the Chief Legal Officer of the Amynta Group, a premier player in the insurance services sector. In this role, he was instrumental in shaping the company’s legal strategy, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks, and navigating complex legal challenges that arise within the insurance landscape.

Before Amynta, Tim held the position of General Counsel at NFP, one of the leading insurance brokers and consultants in the industry. During his time there, he effectively managed a diverse range of legal issues, from contract negotiations to regulatory compliance, enhancing the company’s operational efficiency and risk management practices.

Tim received a JD from Fordham University School of Law and a BS in Political Science and Government from Syracuse University.

With an unwavering dedication to excellence, and a remarkable career spanning more than 30 years, John Peterson stands out as an accomplished Chief Growth Officer at World. His extensive experience in the insurance industry has equipped him with a deep understanding of market dynamics, customer needs, and strategic growth initiatives, positioning him as a pivotal force in propelling World toward sustained growth and success in a competitive marketplace.

John’s expertise includes market analysis, product development, and customer engagement strategies, all aimed at maximizing growth potential and enhancing stakeholder value. His collaborative approach to leadership encourages cross-functional teamwork, fostering an environment where creativity and strategic thinking thrive.

Throughout his career, John has embraced strategic leadership roles that have allowed him to drive innovation and profitability for the organizations he has served. At World, he is recognized for crafting and implementing powerful growth strategies that not only enhance market presence but also foster long-term sustainability. Under his guidance, World has successfully navigated the evolving landscape of the insurance sector, identifying emerging opportunities and leveraging cutting-edge technologies.

Prior to joining World, John dedicated more than 30 years to Aon, progressing through various leadership positions. He began in Aon Financial Services, later overseeing retail sales for Aon Risk Solutions in the U.S. Subsequently, as Resident Managing Director in Chicago, he prioritized employee engagement and client satisfaction, greatly influencing the organization.

John holds an MBA from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Business and a BS in Journalism and BA in Economics from Northwestern University. 

Andrea is World’s Chief Human Resources Officer and is dedicated to developing human capital strategies, evolving merger and acquisition integration processes, managing and improving HR operations and infrastructures, and elevating change management initiatives.

Andrea comes to World with more than 25 years of human resources leadership experience in the insurance, financial services, and data & analytics industries. She has a proven track record of driving results via innovative, systemic workforce solutions across HR operating model design, post-merger systems and services, and cultural transformations.

Prior to joining World, Andrea was senior vice president of global talent for Circana, a $2.2B+ global market research firm. And before that she spent more than 20 years at Allstate Corporation where she was most recently the head of talent acquisition. 

Andrea holds an MA in Labor and Industrial Relations and a BS in Psychology from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. She is a member of the Human Resource Management Association Leadership Summit Committee, is a Certified Emotional Intelligence Trainer by Institute for Health and Human Potential, and she holds a Senior Professional in Human Resources Certification from SHRM.

Jean is World’s Chief Marketing Officer and oversees brand and marketing, sales enablement, and global communications for the firm.

A recognized marketing leader in the financial services industry, Jean’s career spans more than 30 years of delivering large-scale initiatives across the entire marketing spectrum to successfully drive revenue growth, enhance market position, and maximize ROI. She has significant expertise in building and executing brand, digital, and marcom strategies and capabilities, developing internal and external teams, and identifying and implementing martech and operational resources. 

Prior to World, Jean was the CMO at ExtensisHR, a leading PEO and HR Outsourcing firm where she headed a major rebrand and led the marketing and digital transformations including developing referral network strategies for channel partners that led to 30% YOY revenue growth. Prior to that she spent a decade as the CMO of Prudential Financial, Inc.’s Group Insurance business where she developed and managed an $18 million marketing and advertising budget, drove profitable growth in B2B2C markets with a 98%+ client satisfaction score, and developed an award-winning annual thought leadership white paper used at industry conferences. Earlier in her career, she was the Head of Marketing at Merrill Lynch Asset Management.

Jean holds an MBA in Finance and Financial Management Services and a BS in Marketing from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She previously held FINRA Series 7 and 26 licenses. She serves on the board of The Gingerbread House Sanctuary & Rescue, a 501c3 nonprofit organization focused on saving and rehabbing senior small-breed dogs. She is involved in animal rescue and therapy dog work and has raised and placed two service dogs and two therapy dogs.

In his role as Chief Broking Officer for World, Mike effectively oversees a range of critical functions, including portfolio management, coverage placement, and the cultivation of strong carrier relationships. Throughout his more than 35-year career in the insurance industry, Mike has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, employing strategic insights and industry knowledge to navigate complex insurance landscapes. 

His expertise in risk management strategies enables him to optimize coverage solutions tailored to the unique needs of clients as well as lead placement strategy initiatives that drive favorable results for clients and enhance operational efficiency. 

With a focus on commercial property and casualty insurance programs, he adeptly navigates complex market dynamics to secure the best possible terms for clients. Mike’s strategic leadership in trading partner management further underscores his ability to foster collaborative relationships that benefit all stakeholders involved. 

Mike’s former roles include Executive Vice President at The Plexus Groupe, Executive Vice President at Assurance Agency, Ltd., and Regional Marketing Officer, Risk Management at Willis North America.

Mike holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences (BALAS) with a concentration in Political Science from University of Illinois and an Associate in Risk Management designation from American Institute for Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters.

As the head of technology at World, Michael is responsible for overseeing all aspects of information technology, cyber security, and digital strategies. With robust expertise in IT strategy, operations, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and project management, Michael is well-versed in steering complex technological transformations that align with business objectives. His comprehensive knowledge in these areas enables him to seamlessly navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape while maintaining a focus on risk management and sustainable growth.

Michael's extensive background in the technology sector is characterized by his previous leadership roles as Chief Information Officer at Amynta Group and Senior Vice President of Technology for Caliber Home Loans, Inc. His strategic vision and operational insight have consistently driven IT initiatives that enhance organizational efficiency and security.

Michael's diverse background in business administration, finance, and real estate development equips him with a multifaceted perspective on technology's role in driving business success, enabling him to bridge the gap between technical implementation and strategic business considerations. As a result, Michael is not only an asset in IT leadership but also a valuable contributor to overarching corporate strategies.

Michael holds a BBA in Finance of Real Estate and Development from The University of Texas, San Antonio, and completed Executive Education Digital Business Strategy at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

In his role as World’s Chief Corporate Development Officer, Ken leads all M&A functions for the firm’s three businesses—retail insurance, wealth management and retirement planning services, and specialty insurance.

Ken has 30+ years in strategic planning and corporate development with expertise building and leading M&A activities including establishing global corporate development processes, governance protocols, valuation methodologies, artifacts and templates, metrics, and project management offices. He architects multi-billion dollar transactions from start to finish, including sourcing, valuation, pricing, structuring, negotiation, due diligence, contracting, integration, and program management.

Prior to World, Ken served as the SVP head of corporate development at Cetera Financial Group, a Genstar Capital portfolio company, where he oversaw M&A activity for a $6 billion wealth management platform, and he previously had a long-standing career at Aon plc as its SVP corporate development where he led M&A activity for the firm’s $12 billion Commercial Risk and Health Solutions businesses in Chicago and London. Ken got his start in the United States Navy where he was ultimately a Lieutenant, Nuclear Submarine Officer.

Ken holds an MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, with a dual major in Finance and Strategic Management; an MS in Nuclear Engineering from The Naval Nuclear Power School; and a BS in Physics from Creighton University. He is a member of the M&A Leadership Council for Transaction Advisors Institute, an advisory board member for M&A Science, and a board member for Prosperity Advisors LLC, CCR Wealth Management, NetVest Financial LLC, and Pinnacle Wealth Management LLC. Ken is also a mentor for American Corporate Partners, a career mentoring program for military veterans transitioning to the civilian sector.

In partnership with the corporate development team, Michele heads acquisition integration and is responsible for developing and executing a best-in-class integration program that delivers a premier experience to newly acquired partners and their employees. She continually tracks performance, improves processes, and develops best practices.

Prior to joining World, Michele spent 15 years at CLG / Acrisure managing the Group Benefits and Human Resources Division. Earlier in her career, she was with Guardian Life Insurance, Group Sales Insurance Division.

Michele holds a BS in Business Administration & Management from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Laura is the Chief of Staff and reports to Andrea Paris, World’s Chief Operating Officer. 

Prior to World, Laura was an Associate at Carousel Capital and before that she was an Analyst at Harris Williams.

Laura holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance and Information Technology from the University of Virginia.

Liz handles all aspects of World’s acquisition real estate activities. She develops and executes policies and procedures to ensure smooth transitions for World’s newly acquired partners. 

Prior to World, Liz was the Chief Information Officer for Frenkel & Company, and prior to that she was the Chief Information Officer for Couch Braunsdorf Insurance Group. 

Liz holds an MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business and a BS in Computer Science and Psychology from Villanova University. She also has a Certified information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) designation.

As the Chief Executive Officer of World Investment Advisors, Troy oversees both U.S. businesses—wealth management & financial planning services and retirement planning services. With more than two decades of experience in the financial sector, Troy’s strategic vision and in-depth expertise in finance have resulted in the firm innovating an industry-leading hybrid advisor platform. Under his leadership, World Investment Advisors has grown significantly, providing clients with tailored financial solutions and fostering long-term relationships built on trust and transparency.

Prior to World, Troy was the Chief Executive Officer of Pensionmark Financial Group which he founded in 1990 and ultimately sold to World in 2022.

Troy graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara (Business Economics), and holds both the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF) designation and the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification.

Michelle Youshock comes to World with nearly two decades of experience in the insurance industry, specializing in sales performance and management. Her extensive experience, including her time as a former agency owner, has uniquely positioned her to understand both the day-to-day operations at the desk level and the strategic challenges owners face. She has held key leadership roles, including Regional Director for Personal Lines/Small Commercial and Regional Sales Leader at Assured Partners, where she implemented targeted sales and service strategies that boosted regional sales and enhanced team productivity.

Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to mentoring and developing the next generation of insurance professionals. Her dedication to fostering a collaborative environment, along with her focus on data-driven decision-making and consultative selling, has resulted in improved client retention and increased sales revenue.

Youshock is an alumni of Colorado State University Global and serves as Finance Committee Chair for the Leadership Academy of Nevada.

Youshock is based out of Las Vegas.

Lauren leads the World Private Client Group (PCG) team in crafting high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) insurance portfolios, specializing in risk management, personalized client service, and innovative risk management solutions. She and her team of client advisors, placement professionals, and account and claim executives are focused on delivering highly personalized strategies that align with clients’ sophisticated lifestyles and long-term goals. 

Often partnering with clients’ wealth managers, attorneys, and accountants, Lauren understands the complexities and nuances that impact high-net-worth portfolios and the integral part insurance plays in the overall legacy planning process. She stays on top of trends and drives innovation to ensure an elite offering for PCG clients.

Prior to World, Lauren spent more than a decade at Szerlip & Co., where she got her start in the industry, until its acquisition by World. 

Lauren holds an MA from Boston College and a BA from Ithaca college. She also holds a Certified Advisor of Personal Insurance (CAPI) certification from Wharton Executive Education, and the Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation.

Jeff leads World’s New York and New England division focusing on new business development and client satisfaction and retention. He works closely with local advisors and their clients to help customize risk management programs and innovate new solutions and services to meet the ever-changing demands of complex markets across industries such as construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and public entities.

Prior to World, Jeff was a Vice President at Bruen Deldin DiDio Associates, Inc., for more than 25 years before it was acquired by World. Earlier in his career he was a senior underwriter at Continental Insurance Company and a Surety Bond Agent at Dunlap Corporation. 

Jeff sits on various agency council boards with key insurance carriers, and is involved with local, regional, and national construction trade organizations, as well as insurance and bond associations. He has also served as a member of the ABC-CT Board of Directors for 12 years.

Jeff holds a BS in Finance and Business Administration from the University of Connecticut School of Business.

Jeff leads World’s New York and New England division focusing on new business development and client satisfaction and retention. He works closely with local advisors and their clients to help customize risk management programs and innovate new solutions and services to meet the ever-changing demands of complex markets across industries such as construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and public entities.

Prior to World, Jeff was a Vice President at Bruen Deldin DiDio Associates, Inc., for more than 25 years before it was acquired by World. Earlier in his career he was a senior underwriter at Continental Insurance Company and a Surety Bond Agent at Dunlap Corporation. 

Jeff sits on various agency council boards with key insurance carriers, and is involved with local, regional, and national construction trade organizations, as well as insurance and bond associations. He has also served as a member of the ABC-CT Board of Directors for 12 years.

Jeff holds a BS in Finance and Business Administration from the University of Connecticut School of Business.

Leading the New Jersey/Metro area region, Jeff applies his more than 25 years of insurance experience developing and managing client relation strategies for new business and existing retention programs. He partners closely with World’s advisors in his region to tailor risk management programs that keep up with market demands and meet the needs specific to each client.

Prior to joining World, Jeff was the Executive President and Property and Casualty Practice Leader at USI Insurance Services. Former roles include the Head of Global Broker Management for North America at Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty, and the Greater New York Practice Leader for Aon.

Additionally, he was the Associate Director at NASDAQ OMX, which provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of finance and insurance, and how that translates to the frameworks that support robust risk management strategies.

Jeffrey holds a BS from Stony Brook University.

As the Southeast Division Leader, Keith is responsible for spearheading new business development strategies and enhancing client retention programs. Backed by more than 23 years of experience in the industry, Keith’s approach combines strategic foresight with a deep understanding of market dynamics and risk management initiatives, while ensuring an exceptional client experience.

Before joining World, Keith was Managing Director at the Walker-Palmetto Insurance Group in Anderson, South Carolina. There, he played a crucial role in the agency's operations, which has been serving the Carolinas for more than six decades. His leadership not only strengthened the agency's market presence but also fostered enduring relationships with clients, firmly establishing it as a trusted name in the region.

Keith is a graduate of the University of South Carolina Upstate.

Mark is responsible for growing the Great Lakes Region and is focused on developing and implementing client experience strategies for new and existing clients. He partners closely with advisors in his region to tailor programs and innovate new solutions and services that meet the unique needs of their clients. 

For more than 30 years, Mark has served the Great Lakes Region with a specialization in the Education industry. He holds a Certified School Risk Manager designation and consults with World’s advisors across the country to help build strong risk protection programs in the education space.

Joe heads World’s Western Division which includes Texas, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, the Dakotas, Arizona, and California. He is focused on developing new business strategies and enhancing the client experience via customized products and services. Joe's unique background and deep understanding of risk management allow him to approach our clients’ challenges with a multifaceted perspective, driving innovation and growth that leads to exceptional outcomes for World’s clients and partners.

Joe has had a diverse career that includes six seasons playing for the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs. Following his football days, he transitioned to the financial services industry where he held positions at Lyons, TD Bank, Wells Fargo, Willis, and Marsh. His last role before joining World was at WTW, where he served as Chief Operating Officer for the CRB North American Industry Verticals Division. In addition to his role at World, Joe is an Adjunct Professor at Arcadia University, where he teaches Leadership in Sports Management.

Joe holds an MBA with concentrations in Finance and Strategic Management from Villanova University and a BA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.