Our Team

As Executive Chairman, Rich supports World's M&A initiatives and is engaged in strategic growth initiatives with World's employees and clients. 

Rich founded World in 2011 and was Chief Executive Officer until April 2026 when he transitioned to Executive Chairman. Through a strategic blend of acquisitions and organic initiatives, Rich grew World from a startup to a diversified global financial organization and one of the largest independent insurance brokerages in the United States. 

Amassing more than $700 million in revenue, his visionary approach not only propelled the firm's profitability but led to an innovative product offering with three complementary business lines—retail insurance, wholesale insurance, and wealth management and retirement plan services. 

Armed with large-scale resources to meet the diverse needs of clients, Rich built a scalable model to simultaneously deliver an exceptional and personal "local office" client experience—a core value World is known for today. 

Rich is a seasoned executive with more than 30 years of senior leadership experience in the banking and insurance industries. He 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.

John Newell, Chief Executive Officer 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. John'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. 

John brings more than two decades of experience driving growth strategies, leading large-scale operations, and building high-performing teams in the insurance brokerage industry. Most recently, he served as chief commercial officer at Newfront, a technology-enabled specialty brokerage platform, where he led all business units across insurance, benefits, and retirement services, expanding the firm into new industry verticals and geographies and transforming service delivery through integrated AI and automation. 

Prior to Newfront, John spent the earlier part of his career at Marsh in leadership roles focused on developing and executing business strategy and leading teams to support long-term growth and profitability. He most recently served as head of their Central U.S. region and was a member of the firm's U.S. Executive Committee, overseeing a $500+ million business with approximately 2,000 employees across 19 offices. During his tenure, he accelerated organic growth, enhanced operating performance, and led strategic initiatives that expanded Marsh's reach across key industries, while building the highest levels of employee engagement in the U.S. 

John holds a BA from Miami University. 

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 & experience. Prior to joining World, she was the Head of Client Service Operations for Corporate Risk & Broking, North America for Willis Towers Watson (WTW). Before 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.  

Previously, 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, 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.

Before stepping into this role with World, Tim served as the Chief Legal Officer of the Amynta Group, a premier player in the insurance services sector. At Amynta, 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 extensive background 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 at Aon in 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, as well as a BS in Journalism and a BA in Economics, both 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.

Before 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 through the 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 extensive knowledge in building and executing brand, digital, and marcom strategies and capabilities, developing internal and external teams, as well as identifying and implementing martech and operational resources. 

Prior to World, Jean was 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. Before 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 created 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 501(c)(3) 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.

Betsey Milord leads World's broking organization, strengthening market relationships, enhancing broking capabilities and delivering exceptional client outcomes nationwide.

With more than 30 years of industry experience, Milord joined World after a decade at Marsh, the nation's largest insurance brokerage, where she led middle market placement operations at both the regional and national levels. Her career began as an agency owner in the Chicago suburbs before advancing into leadership roles overseeing small business, commercial lines and national placement strategies. A recognized industry leader, Milord was named a "Top 50 Women Leaders of Insurance" in 2024 by Women We Admire, and "Power Broker of the Year" in 2021 by Risk & Insurance Magazine.

Milord is based out of World's Chicago office.

As the head of technology at World, Michael is responsible for overseeing all aspects of information technology, cybersecurity, and digital strategies. With robust experience 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 at San Antonio, and completed Executive Education Digital Business Strategy at the 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, retirement planning services, and specialty insurance.

Ken has 30+ years in strategic planning and corporate development, and has a strong background in 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.

Before his role at 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. He previously had a long-standing career at Aon 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. 

Before coming to World, Laura was an Associate at Carousel Capital, following her tenure as 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 before 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.

Ed Walters oversees WIA’s operations, growth initiatives, and advisor and client experience platforms, while working closely with the executive team to expand its presence as a leading force in wealth management.

Walters is a seasoned C-suite leader with more than 20 years of experience driving transformational growth across some of the industry’s most respected firms, including Osaic, Lincoln Financial Group, T. Rowe Price, Janney Montgomery Scott, and Ferris Baker Watts. He has developed a reputation for building sophisticated centralized wealth platforms, launching innovative products, accelerating growth within organizations, and creating new levels of scale and profitability.

Notably, Walters served as Chief Operating Officer & Head of Wealth Management at the $70 billion Lincoln Financial Network, part of the Lincoln Financial Group. In that role, he executed a growth strategy that quintupled earnings while leading over 200 associates and supporting approximately 1,500 financial professionals.

Earlier in his career, Walters developed and launched T. Rowe Price’s Active Plus Portfolios, a first-of-its-kind robo-advisor. While there, he also expanded the firm’s managed account platform globally.

Meanwhile, during his time at Janney Montgomery Scott, he successfully transformed the firm’s model from transactional brokerage to fee-based wealth management, driving sustained double-digit growth.

Walters is also recognized as a culture builder and talent developer. He has sponsored leadership programs that elevate rising executives and launched financial literacy initiatives for underserved communities. His board service at Saint Joseph’s University and the Urban League of Philadelphia underscores his commitment to ethics, inclusion, and community impact.

Rob Erfurt is the New Jersey market leader and national industry leader at World. Erfurt leads growth and operational excellence across the NJ market while advancing World's industry practices, developing specialized solutions and insights that help clients navigate the unique risks facing their businesses. 

With more than 20 years of industry experience, Erfurt came to World after spending a decade at Acrisure where he most recently led sales operations for North America Retail. Earlier in his career he was on the consultancy side of risk management, HR/compliance and business strategy and development. 

Erfurt is based out of World's headquarters in Iselin, New Jersey.

Michelle Youshock comes to World with nearly two decades of experience in the insurance industry, specializing in sales performance and management. Her extensive knowledge, 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 alumna of Colorado State University Global and serves as Finance Committee Chair for the Leadership Academy of Nevada.

Youshock is based out of Las Vegas.

John Cicchelli heads World’s employee benefits practice. In this role, Cicchelli spearheads strategic initiatives to accelerate growth, including market expansion and product development, across North America.

With 30 years in the industry, Cicchelli brings a wealth of experience building and growing employee benefits practices and teams. Most recently, he was at Gallagher as their NY/NJ Metro Growth Leader, and before that, at Marsh & McLennan Agency, where he was responsible for running the Northeast Region, while additionally tasked with building and executing the Marsh & McLennan employee health and benefits cross-sell priority for Marsh and MMA within the entire organization. He holds a B.A. from the University of Maine.

Cicchelli works out of World’s headquarters in Iselin, New Jersey, and NYC.

Mike brings decades of surety experience, with a proven track record spanning underwriting, surety relationship management, and business development across both domestic and international accounts. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President at Cross Surety, where he played a key role in building the surety operation while driving market opportunities and overall strategy. Mike has also held senior leadership roles at Hilb Rogal & Hobbs and Willis, earning recognition for strong negotiation skills and consistent market growth results.

Mike focuses on practice leadership, go-to-market strategy, carrier engagement, and team enablement. He also supports client-facing teams with placement strategy, complex surety program design, and best practices related to servicing and compliance.

Kaylee is a results-driven insurance sales executive and growth strategist with a proven track record of driving revenue, developing high-performing teams, and strengthening market performance. With extensive experience across the insurance industry, she is known for her ability to build strong relationships, mentor producers, and implement data-driven sales strategies that support long-term growth and retention.

Jeff leads World’s New York and New England division, focusing on new business development, 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.

Before World, Jeff was Vice President at Bruen Deldin DiDio Associates, Inc., for more than 25 years before World acquired it. 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.

Duane is a proven leader with a track record of building high-performing teams, strengthening client relationships, and driving growth and operational excellence across multiple businesses and divisions.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business/Commerce from Northwestern State University and a Master’s degree in Business from Louisiana State University, providing a strong foundation for his business leadership career.

Leading the New Jersey/Metro area region, Jeff applies his more than 25 years of insurance experience developing and managing client relations 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.

Before stepping into his role with 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.