Tennessee Insurance Head McPeak Steps Down; Lawrence to Lead in Interim

After eight years as the head of the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI), Commissioner Julie Mix McPeak is leaving Tennessee state government to pursue career opportunities in the private sector, according to a statement from TDCI.

TDCI said her last day as commissioner will be June 14.

Governor Bill Lee has named Deputy Commissioner Carter Lawrence to serve as interim commissioner until a permanent commissioner is selected.

Lee thanked McPeak for her years of service and “her tireless commitment to her department and to Tennessee. We wish her the best in her future endeavors.” Of Lawrence, Lee said he “has ably served as deputy commissioner at the [department] and I look forward to serving alongside him as he steps into the role of interim commissioner.”

McPeak was first appointed commissioner by Governor Bill Haslam in 2011 and was reappointed by Lee after he was elected governor in November. Shortly after, she spoke with Insurance Journal about her priorities for TDCI under the new administration and her role as president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), which she completed in December.

“My main take away is that the state-based system of insurance regulation is solid, works very well in the United States market, and that we still are the world leader in terms of financial oversight, consumer protection, and competitive market,” McPeak said at the time.

The former executive director of the Kentucky Office of Insurance, she is the first woman to serve as chief insurance regulator in more than one state.

“Tennessee is a special place, and it has been a distinct privilege and honor to have served the Volunteer State,” McPeak said.

Lawrence has been with TDCI since 2017, previously overseeing its administration as well as the Division of Regulatory Boards.