Jim Rogers - Leadership, Automation, and the Future of Insurance
This post is part of our Executive Board Spotlight series, where we proudly feature the dedicated volunteers who help guide NetVU. We’re grateful for their leadership, passion, and commitment to driving our community forward.
At the crossroads of innovation, leadership, and insurance, few individuals embody the spirit of transformation quite like Jim Rogers. As the leader of agency automation at The Hartford and the immediate past chairman of NetVU, Jim’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, mentorship, and a relentless drive to make the independent agency system better.
A Humble Beginning with Lasting Lessons
Jim’s career didn’t begin in a boardroom—it began on the fairways of a golf course. Working in a pro shop as a teenager, Jim learned invaluable lessons about customer service, adaptability, and communication. “That experience taught me how to work with all kinds of people—from doctors who cared deeply about hydration to golfers who just wanted to tee off on time,” he recalls. “It helped shape the way I listen, respond, and find solutions. Those early lessons stuck with me throughout my entire career.”
Influences and Unplanned Pathways
Like many in the industry, Jim didn’t plan to work in insurance. “I fell into it,” he admits with a chuckle. “A golf connection actually offered me a job at their agency after college, and I took it.” That leap started a decades-long career that blended his business acumen with a deep interest in technology and operations.
Over the years, a core group of mentors and colleagues helped shape his path. “About 5 to 10 people have been with me throughout my whole career,” he says. “They’ve been a sounding board, a source of support, and I’ve been lucky enough to help them in return.”
From Agent to Automation Advocate
After spending time as a commercial insurance agent, Jim discovered a passion for technology and operations. “I realized I was very good at that,” he says. That realization led to a transition into the carrier side, eventually taking on roles focused on training and technology.
He reflects on helping install the first digital systems for Vertafore in the early 1990s—an experience that planted the seeds for his career-long mission to improve operational efficiency in the industry. “It’s about understanding insurance from all angles—agent, carrier, and vendor—and stitching together digital experiences that truly work.”
Driving Change, One Second at a Time
One of Jim’s proudest accomplishments has been transforming outdated, inefficient processes into streamlined digital experiences. “Early in my career, it could take a week to get a simple task completed,” he explains. “Now at The Hartford, we measure transactions in seconds. Not minutes, not hours—seconds.”
He’s passionate about creating better tools and experiences for agents. “This new generation expects speed and intuitiveness. We owe it to them—and the industry—to raise the bar.”
A Career of Impact
While it's difficult for Jim to single out one “most rewarding” project, he’s clear on what drives him. “My career has been dedicated to operational efficiency for independent agents. Whether it's setting digital standards or automating transactions, it's always been about helping agencies do more with less.”
He sees the impact clearly. “We’ve materially improved how agencies operate, lowering their expense ratios and helping them thrive. That’s a legacy I’m proud of.”
Deep Roots in NetVU
Jim has been part of NetVU for more than three decades—and it’s shaped much of his professional journey. “My very first conference opened my eyes to what was possible,” he says. “I learned so much from other agents, from volunteers, and eventually I got involved myself.”
Now, Jim is focused on giving back. “This organization has provided mentorship, community, and innovation. I want to help the next generation the same way others helped me.”
Looking Ahead: Trends and Technology
As someone on the forefront of agency automation, Jim sees major trends shaping the industry:
- Security remains top of mind. “We need stronger digital identity solutions, and the industry must collaborate—across competitors—on security models.”
- AI Integration is rising. “We’ll see AI providing real-time insights and recommendations to agents. Whether it’s helping with renewals or informing risk, intelligent tools will become essential.”
- Automation Expansion will continue. “We’ve made strides in personal and small commercial lines. Next up? Middle market, financial services, and even non-admitted products.”
The Power of Community and Collaboration
Jim credits much of his success to community—especially the one built through NetVU and Accelerate. “It’s where you learn what’s new, what’s next, and what matters,” he says. “You meet the people building these technologies, solving real problems, and sharing what works.”
From carrying golf bags to carrying the future of agency automation, Jim Rogers’ journey shows how curiosity, mentorship, and a drive for improvement can reshape an industry. As technology and expectations evolve, leaders like Jim are making sure the insurance industry evolves with them—faster, smarter, and better for everyone.
At the heart of it all, Jim believes in a simple but powerful philosophy: People helping people.