Eric S. Poe, Chief Executive Officer of CURE Auto Insurance, has become a key proponent of inclusive and equitable insurance policies in the complex world of auto insurance. His journey reflects a steadfast commitment to reforming industry practices that often disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
Early Inspirations And Formative Experiences
Hailing from Lexington, Massachusetts—the site of the Revolutionary War’s opening salvo— Eric Poe draws inspiration from his heritage. He likens his professional endeavors to the resilience of the minutemen, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in the pursuit of justice. A profound influence in his life was his stepfather, James J. Sheeran, whose memoir, “No Surrender,” chronicles harrowing World War II experiences. Sheeran’s unwavering determination in the face of adversity has left an indelible mark on Poe’s personal and professional ethos.
Educational Background And Legal Expertise
Poe’s academic and professional credentials are a testament to his dedication and expertise. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1994 and went on to obtain his Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University in 2002. Licensed as an attorney in New Jersey since 2006, Poe also holds the designation of Certified Public Accountant, further enhancing his analytical and strategic capabilities.
Professional Trajectory: From NJ PURE To CURE Auto Insurance
Before joining CURE Auto Insurance, Poe served as the Complex Claims Litigation Officer at NJ PURE, where he oversaw complex and catastrophic claims. He appeared before the New Jersey Supreme Court several times and argued cases before the New Jersey Appellate Division. Notably, he successfully appealed an earlier Appellate Division ruling in 2015 when he argued CURE v. Perez before the New Jersey Supreme Court.
At CURE Auto Insurance, Poe has been instrumental in advocating for policies that prioritize driving history over socioeconomic indicators. His leadership has been crucial in steering the company toward practices that promote fairness and inclusivity in accessing, understanding and purchasing auto insurance.
Advocacy For Legislative Reform
Poe’s commitment to equitable insurance practices extends beyond corporate policy into legislative advocacy. He has testified before various legislative bodies, including the U.S. House of Representatives and state legislatures, addressing issues of insurance scoring and rate-setting practices. The Prohibit Auto Insurance Income Discrimination (PAID) Act, which forbids the use of non-driving characteristics, including credit score, occupation, and education, in setting insurance prices, is the result of his efforts.
CURE Auto Insurance: A Model For Equitable Practices
Under Poe’s leadership, CURE Auto Insurance has positioned itself as a beacon of equitable underwriting and risk management practices. The company eschews the use of education, occupation, and credit scores in its rating and underwriting processes, focusing solely on driving history to determine rates. This approach ensures that all drivers, regardless of socioeconomic status, are evaluated based on their actual driving behavior, promoting fairness and inclusivity.
Recognition And Continued Commitment
Poe’s unwavering commitment to social justice and equitable pricing practices has garnered widespread recognition. In 2019, he was honored with the Commitment and Achievement Award by the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, acknowledging his efforts to address systemic inequities within the insurance industry.
A Vision For The Future
Looking ahead, Poe envisions a future where insurance policies are devoid of stereotypical biases and truly reflective of individual risk factors. He supports the incorporation of mental health and mindfulness into social structures because he thinks that these programs can help create a society that is more just and equal.
Conclusion
Eric S. Poe’s journey is a testament to the impact of dedicated advocacy and leadership. Through his efforts, he has not only transformed the policies of a single company but has also worked diligently to influence state and national legislation, committed to steering the auto insurance industry toward a more equitable and inclusive future. His work is a powerful illustration of how one person’s vision can support systemic change and provide equitable access to basic services for all people, regardless of background.
