Pharmacists Mutual Names New Vice President and Head of Claims
Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Group has named Sharon Duez Shaw as Vice President and Head of Claims, marking a significant leadership transition within the organization. The appointment, effective August 31, 2026, follows the planned retirement of Senior Vice President Peter Lambert, who will step down on March 31, 2027.
Shaw brings extensive experience in specialty insurance and claims management, having previously served as Chief Claims Officer at Vela Insurance, a W. R. Berkley company, and in various executive roles at AXIS Capital, including Head of Global Claims Strategy & Shared Services and Head of North American Claims. Her background includes a Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and a bachelor's degree in Spanish from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
"Sharon's background in specialty insurance and claims leadership makes her an outstanding addition to our organization at an important point in our growth," said Aaron Pearce, President and CEO of Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Group. "Her experience leading claims strategy and building strong teams will be invaluable as we continue investing in our capabilities as a specialty underwriting company."
Alison VanOtterloo, Division President at Pharmacists Mutual, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the critical role claims play in the company's service delivery. "Claims is a key component of the experience we deliver to the allied healthcare professionals and businesses we serve," she said. "Sharon's leadership will help us continue to advance our claims organization while maintaining responsive service, technical expertise, and strong partnerships with our agents and insureds."
Peter Lambert, who will remain with the organization until his retirement, expressed his enthusiasm for the transition. "I am proud of the claims team we have built and the service we provide to our agents and insureds," he said. "I look forward to working closely with Sharon in the months ahead to share knowledge, support continuity, and help ensure the organization is well-positioned for continued success."
Shaw's appointment reflects Pharmacists Mutual's commitment to enhancing its capabilities as a leading specialty underwriting company serving allied healthcare professionals and organizations. She and Lambert will collaborate over the next six months to ensure a smooth transition, supporting the organization's agents, insureds, and strategic partners.
Pharmacist Mutual Insurance Group, headquartered in Algona, Iowa, continues to be a leading provider of commercial lines property and casualty products for independently owned and operated pharmacies in the United States. Founded in 1909 as Druggists Mutual, the group's insurance company subsidiaries are rated A- (Excellent) by AM Best.
Shaw's arrival marks a new chapter for Pharmacists Mutual, as the company aims to strengthen its value proposition and operational excellence in the specialty insurance market.