Missouri Employers Mutual Puts CEO Wilson on Leave

Missouri Employers Mutual Insurance Co. has put its president and CEO, former Gov. Roger Wilson, on administrative leave. Board Chairman Jim Owen will head the firm on an interim basis, the company reported.

Headquartered in Columbia, Mo., MEM is the state’s largest workers’ compensation insurer. It was formed in 1993 and operates as a private company, but the governor confirms three of its five board members.

Wilson was named MEM’s president and CEO of Missouri in January 2010 after serving the company since June 2009 as acting president and CEO. In his role, Wilson is responsible for the strategic development of the company, as well as overall management and business implementation.

Before being named Missouri’s 52nd Governor in October 2000 to complete Gov. Mel Carnahan’s unexpired term, Wilson served two terms as lieutenant governor. He began his career in public service as a teacher and assistant principal in Columbia. His elected service began with his role as Boone County Collector in 1976, followed by 13 years as state senator beginning with a special election in 1979.

Former board members Douglas Morgan and Karen Pletz have been indicted for fraud.