Connecticut Insurance and Financial Services

Connecticut Insurance and Financial Services (CT IFS) was established in 2003 as a statewide initiative of the MetroHartford Alliance. Representing 23 member companies, we are the driving force behind Connecticut’s globally recognized insurance and financial services sector. For over two decades, CT IFS has been dedicated to strengthening and advancing the industry, ensuring it remains a leader in innovation, talent, and economic growth.

Extensive Data Hub

Robust network of more than 500 public and private organizations

23 Member Companies

Partner with experts changing the global insurance marketplace

Statewide Alliance

Regional networking for insurance executives, professionals and startups

Leadership and Collaboration

CT IFS leadership works closely with the State of Connecticut, meeting quarterly with the Commissioners of Economic Development, Banking, and Insurance. This public-private partnership fosters collaboration, aligning strategies and goals to drive economic growth and strengthen the insurance and financial services industry.

Current Chair
Mark Meador

President
ConnectiCare

Recent Past Chairs

Anne Thibeault
Vice President, Product Integration and Segment Strategies

Michael Klein
EVP & President, Personal Insurance
Travelers

Jim Bedard
CFO Individual and Specialty Businesses
UnitedHealthcare

Executive Committee

  • Mark Meador, President, ConnectiCare

  • Adam McLaughlin, Senior Vice President, Commercial Lending, Webster Bank

  • Daniel Campany, VP Innovation, Head of Risk Control Services, The Hartford

  • Shilpa Manaktala, Partner Insurance Trust Solutions, PwC

  • Rajat Kalia, Chief Technology Officer, Workplace Solutions, Voya

  • Anne Thibeault, Vice President, Head of Product Strategy & Solution Delivery, Empower Retirement

  • Timothy Archer, CEO, New England, UnitedHealthcare

  • Roberta Wachtelhausen, President, WellSpark Health

Board Members

  • Drew Iacucci, Senior Vice President, Private Client Manager, Bank of America

  • Domenic Luppino, Vice President, Consulting Services, CGI

  • Courtney Larkin, Vice President, Gov't Relations, The Travelers Companies, Inc.

  • Satish Venkatesan, Chief Technology Officer, Insurance Practice, Cognizant

  • Scott Hawkins, Managing Director, Head of Insurance Practice, Conning

  • Ethan Chevrette, Audit Senior Manager, Deloitte

  • Stuart Brereton, Chief Sales Officer, Delta Dental of Connecticut & New Jersey, Inc.

  • Charlie Mihaliak, Principal, Financial Services Office, EY

  • Stephanie Watkins, Senior Vice President, Global Product Owners, HSB/Munich Re

  • Vilas Shah, Head - Partnership and Alliance [Insurance North America], Infosys

  • Matthew Hummel, Senior Vice President and Team Leader, Key Bank

  • Susan Jackson, Partner, KPMG

  • Diane Ellsworth, Chief of Staff to CEO, Nassau Financial Group

  • Susan Martinelli, Partner, Assurance Services, Hartford Office Leader, RSM US LLP

  • Lisa Marecki, Senior Vice President, Workplace Benefits, Symetra

The Driving Force Behind Connecticut’s Leadership

The success of Connecticut’s insurance and financial services industry is built on collaboration and visionary leadership. As a key initiative of the MetroHartford Alliance, CT IFS benefits from strong partnerships and strategic guidance. Together, they create the foundation for innovation, growth, and global impact.

A MetroHartford Alliance Initiative

CT IFS is a key initiative of the MetroHartford Alliance (MHA), an organization powered by more than 500 businesses, public and private organizations, and municipalities. The MHA champions economic growth and innovation across the Hartford Region, fostering collaboration to enhance quality of life, attract top talent, and create a thriving business ecosystem. By tracking vital data and aligning with state and regional partners, the MHA provides essential support to CT IFS, helping the insurance and financial services sector lead on a global scale.

Susan Winkler: Leading CT IFS

Since 2007, Susan Winkler has provided strategic leadership to CT IFS, guiding the organization’s mission to strengthen Connecticut’s insurance and financial services sector. As Executive Director, Susan works closely with the Board of Directors and key stakeholders, including K-12 and post-secondary education partners, state officials, and national and international agencies. Her collaborative efforts ensure CT IFS remains a leader in innovation, talent development, and economic growth.

Susan also serves as a prominent representative of Connecticut’s insurance and financial services industry, collaborating with trade associations, and sitting on numerous boards.