At the helm of the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance is William J. Hold, M.B.A., CRM, CISR, a dynamic leader dedicated to advancing education and professional development in the risk and insurance industry. 

As President and CEO, William’s vision drives The Alliance’s mission to empower professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to thrive in a competitive landscape.

A Career Rooted in Education and Excellence

William’s journey into the insurance and risk management world began with a bachelor’s degree in finance, specializing in risk management and insurance from The University of Alabama, followed by an M.B.A. from Florida State University. He earned his Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation in 2007 and his Certified Risk Manager (CRM) designation in 2013.

William’s leadership extends beyond The Alliance. He serves on the advisory boards of the Risk Management and Insurance Center at the University of Houston–Downtown and Samford University’s Risk Management and Insurance Curriculum, contributing to shaping the future of the industry.

Innovating While Honoring Tradition

For William, leading The Alliance is about balancing innovation with the organization’s longstanding values. “Balancing innovation with our core values means staying true to what makes The Alliance unique—our commitment to excellence, education, and community,” William explains. “Every change we embrace must enhance the experience for those we serve.”

This philosophy has driven the development of cutting-edge programs and tools, ensuring The Alliance remains a leader in professional education while adapting to the evolving needs of the industry.

Tackling Industry Challenges

William is passionate about addressing critical challenges in the insurance and risk management industry, particularly the need to develop top sales talent.

“Finding, hiring, and developing producers is one of the biggest challenges agencies face today,” he shares. “Through targeted education and training, The Alliance is working to bridge that gap, helping agencies cultivate talent that can succeed in a competitive environment.”

Guided by Personal Values

William’s leadership is deeply rooted in personal values shaped by experience and reflection. He often reflects on advice he received early in his career: “Decide who you want to be before deciding what you want to do.” This mindset helps him stay grounded and focused on leading with integrity, humility, and purpose.

A Lasting Impact

Under William’s leadership, The Alliance continues to build on its legacy of excellence, equipping professionals with the tools they need to succeed and elevating the industry as a whole.

“Every story I hear about how our education has transformed a participant’s career or agency is a reminder of why we do what we do,” William says. “It’s about making a meaningful impact, one professional at a time.”

Through his vision, commitment, and dedication, William J. Hold is leading The Alliance into a future defined by innovation, imagination, integrity, and inspiration.