Gillespie Named IL Department Of Insurance Director: Pritzker

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — Saying her "decades of experience at work making the insurance system better for every Illinoisan," Gov. JB Pritzker announced Monday the appointment of State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) as the new director of the Illinois Department of Insurance. Gillespie will replace the current director, Dana Popish Severinghaus, on April 15.

"It's an honor to be asked to serve the state of Illinois in this new capacity, and I am eager to begin working with the Department of Insurance to make sure the system works for Illinois consumers," Gillespie said in a statement. "My experience in the healthcare field underlies decades of advocacy and public service, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue that work."

Gillespie, who has served in the Illinois General Assembly since 2019, will resign from the post in mid-April, according to Pritzker's office.

"I am pleased to appoint an accomplished advocate like Senator Gillespie as the new acting director and look forward to seeing her decades of experience at work making the insurance system better for every Illinoisan," Pritzker said.

Gillespie is a former business executive, health care attorney, and consultant in the health care field. Pritzker's office said she brings "decades of experience in the insurance and managed care spaces to the role."

The DOI regulates insurance industry behavior in Illinois, protecting consumers and fostering a competitive marketplace. In addition, according to Pritzker's office, the department provides a "central source of information" on insurance providers as well as rules and regulations surrounding insurance, as well as an outlet to file grievances or complaints against insurance providers.

Gillespie will also be responsible for the operations of the Office of the Special Deputy Receiver, which handles the affairs of insurance companies placed in rehabilitation, conservation or liquidation.

The 27th District includes parts of Arlington Heights, Hoffman Estates, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Rolling Meadows, Barrington, Inverness, Palatine, Prospect Heights and South Barrington.