Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer named Germaine Marks the acting director of the Arizona Department of Insurance (ADOI). Among other duties, Marks will lead the department in monitoring and promoting the financial safety and soundness of insurers transacting business in Arizona.
“Gerrie has been a vital presence at the Department of Insurance for fifteen years,” Brewer said. “Aside from a keen familiarity with the Department’s operations, policies and regulatory responsibilities, she possesses more than a decade of managerial experience and a wealth of legal expertise that will serve her well in this role.”
Marks most recently served as the deputy director of the Arizona Department of Insurance, a position she has held since 2003. In this capacity, she was responsible for the oversight and coordination of all agency decisions for the director. She also assisted in the development and implementation of agency initiatives and policies regarding producer and insurer licensing, and was instrumental in the development of insurance regulatory policy both in Arizona and nationwide.
Previously, Marks served as ADOI’s acting deputy director for regulatory affairs in 2003 and executive assistant for regulatory affairs from 1997 to 2003. She also has served as assistant attorney general at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office from 1992 to 1997; practiced at Platt & Westby P.C. from1990 to 1992; and served as law clerk-bailiff for the Honorable Robert Myers at the Maricopa Superior Court from 1989 to 1990.
Marks received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Nebraska in 1986 and a Juris Doctorate from Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law in1989.
Marks is being appointed to serve in this capacity due to the pending retirement of outgoing Insurance Director Christina Urias. Urias’ retirement was effective June 29.
“Christina’s leadership, knowledge and dedication have guided ADOI for nearly a decade,” Brewer said. “She has been a tremendous asset to the Department and to the citizens of Arizona. I would like to offer my gratitude for all she has done for our State, and wish her all the best for her future.”