Austin, TX – Texas Mutual Insurance Company recently announced the promotions of two current employees to vice president. Peppia Sherrouse has been named as Texas Mutual’s new vice president of claim operations. Sherrouse was promoted to this role after serving as the vice president of regional operations in Houston for nearly five years. She is succeeded by Chris Dowling, who has served as a territory management specialist in Austin since February 2020.
“When we found ourselves in need of a vice president of claim operations, we knew Peppia was up to the task,” said Jeanette Ward, president and CEO of Texas Mutual. “Her compassionate leadership style and emphasis on providing advancement opportunities for her employees have made her an excellent leader at the Houston regional office, and combined with her claims background and years of experience, she was the perfect candidate for this position.”
Sherrouse first joined Texas Mutual in 2013 as a senior manager of regional claims. Prior to joining Texas Mutual, Sherrouse served as branch manager for CorVel Company and as the southern region claims manager for SeaBright Insurance Company. She has nearly 30 years of combined experience in the workers’ compensation insurance industry across multiple states and maritime jurisdictions.
At Texas Mutual, Sherrouse has spearheaded many efforts to support Houston’s economy and community, including a claims apprenticeship program. Sherrouse has received a leadership award from Texas Mutual for her commitment to enhancing employee growth and for developing a customized approach to meet the needs of employees in each department of the Houston region. As the vice president of claim operations, Sherrouse will oversee daily activities of claim operations for the organization, helping to ensure exemplary customer service and effective leadership.
Dowling first joined Texas Mutual in 2018 as a senior territory manager where he maintained and strengthened relationships with key agency partners. As vice president of regional operations in Houston, he will coordinate and direct all regional office operations. He will also continue to foster customer and community relations to expand the company’s presence in the greater Houston area.
“During Chris’ time at Texas Mutual, he has proven to be a talented individual with a track record of generating results and influencing change. This, as well as his industry experience and expertise in building community relationships, make him a great addition to lead and build on Peppia’s efforts as vice president of regional operations,” said Lisa Evans, vice president of distribution and customer engagement at Texas Mutual. “We’re confident in his ability to lead the Houston office to great successes in the years to come.”
Dowling began his career in insurance in 2011 with The Hanover Insurance Group, holding positions in underwriting and sales. In 2014, he joined AF Group and moved into monoline workers’ compensation insurance. Dowling brings with him 13 years of experience in insurance and a wealth of industry knowledge in developing people and fostering strong relationships, making him an ideal addition to lead the Houston regional team.
Source: Texas Mutual