Derek Valdo First American Indian Named CEO for Amerind

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

SANTA ANA PEUBLO, NEW MEXICO – Amerind Risk Management announced the appointment of Derek Valdo as Amerind's new chief executive officer. A perfect in-house candidate for the job, Valdo is an 11 year veteran of the risk pool industry, a company statement proclaimed.

Derek Valdo - Acoma Pueblo

Over the years he has worked on many major projects at Amerind, and has played a key role in executive management strategic planning sessions with the senior management team. Valdo's understanding of Amerind's unique footprint in the risk pool industry, advocacy for Tribal issues and the ever expanding programs should make for a seamless transition.

“I am extremely humbled and honored to be named the new CEO of Amerind.”

Said Valdo.

“I am very excited for this opportunity to serve Indian country and lead Amerind's efforts in providing cost effective coverage, keeping the financial resources and building capacity by and for Indian country. ”

“We have all the confidence that Mr. Valdo, with his background, experience and knowledge of Tribal issues will carry this corporation forward. He has full support of the Amerind Board of Directors.”

Said Chairman of the Board Phil Bush.

Valdo served as the Director of Safety Services since 2000. He is an appointed councilman serving the Pueblo of Acoma, a certified risk manager working in all aspects of insurance, emergency, safety and risk management. Worked for 11 years as a certified risk manager with all aspects of integrated solutions that are culturally sensitive, performance based, and aimed to improve, empower, and build capacity in Native American Communities. Attended Stanford University and graduated cum laude with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Economics with a minor in Management from the University of New Mexico.

Derek Valdo's appointment came at the same time Amerind announced that Kent Paul stepped down as chief executive officer July 17. Paul is a respected Risk Management professional with 35 plus years of experience. He had dedicated 13 years to growing and strengthening the corporation.

Amerind Risk Management Corporation is a multi-tribal, not-for-profit federal corporation. Tribes united to create Amerind in 1986 to protect life and property from the devastation of fire, natural disasters and other unforeseen events. Amerind is owned by the majority of federally recognized tribes.

posted July 19, 2012 7:57 am edt