Press Release

IRI Elects New Board Chair, Vice Chair

Issued by Insured Retirement Institute [IRI]

Mar. 27, 2025

TAMPA, FLORIDA — The Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) announced changes to its board of directors today, including a new chair and vice chair.

The new chair is Corey Walther, President of Allianz Life Financial Services, LLC. The new vice chair is Rob Jamieson, Senior Vice President, Head of Insurance/Recordkeeper Segment and Investments, at Fidelity Institutional Asset Management.

Walther succeeds Phil Pellegrino, Managing Director, Head of Wealth Planning & Insured Solutions at UBS, who becomes the immediate past chair and remains on the IRI Executive Committee. Paula Nelson, Managing Director and Head of Strategic Growth with Global Atlantic Financial Group, will continue as Treasurer/Secretary.

“Corey is a proven industry leader with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of retirement security,” Chopus said. “As he assumes the role of IRI Board Chair, his expertise and commitment will be invaluable in advancing our mission to expand access to retirement savings solutions and drive industry modernization. I look forward to collaborating with Corey as we build on IRI’s strong momentum and continue delivering meaningful impact for America’s workers and retirees.”

“The need for managing risk in retirement has never been greater and it is an honor to be able to champion that need while shaping the future of our industry,” Walther said. “IRI and its growing membership have been instrumental in moving our industry forward in helping millions of Americans attain their retirement goals.”

Chopus also thanked Pellegrino for his service as board chair. “Phil stepped up to lead the board for an extended term during a period of transition. He graciously accepted and embraced this responsibility, demonstrating his commitment to IRI and the industry,” Chopus said. “During his tenure, we encountered obstacles and opportunities, including the fight against the U.S. Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule and the advancement of our Digital First for Annuities initiative, which is modernizing and enhancing the way our industry does business. Phil’s leadership and support were critical to our progress and success in these and so many other areas.”

“Leading the IRI Board has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’m proud of the strides we’ve made in advancing our mission, Pellegrino said. “The collective efforts of our board, members, and leadership team have strengthened IRI as the voice of the insured retirement industry. I am confident that the association’s impact will only grow as we build on this foundation through collaboration and leadership.”

“IRI’s achievements are a direct result of the guidance, expertise, and dedication of our Board of Directors,” said Wayne Chopus, IRI President and CEO. “We are fortunate to have such highly engaged leaders who make an impact and are fully committed to shaping the future of our industry. Their contributions are invaluable, and I am truly grateful for their support.”

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