AIA Corporation (PPAI 101364, D11) announced today that its board of directors has appointed Nancy Schmidt as the Appleton, Wisconsin-headquartered distributor’s new chief executive officer. Schmidt has been with AIA for two years and most recently served as its chief financial officer. She is the first woman in AIA history to hold the position of CEO.

While serving as CFO at AIA, Schmidt worked closely with marketing, operations, sales, owner success and technology team leaders to build relationships, develop growth strategies, analyze risk, build financial forecasts, and lead teams to optimal functionality and performance. As CEO, Schmidt will manage all aspects of the business including profit and loss accountability, and organizational management and development. She will drive the execution of the strategic plan, leading AIA through its next stage of growth in partnership with the leadership team.

Schmidt replaces Matt Gresge, who, after three-and-a-half years with AIA, is leaving to pursue a new leadership opportunity.

Read more on this story in Tuesday’s PPB Newslink.