Cook Named Next Managing Director of Iowa’s Global Insurance Accelerator

The Global Insurance Accelerator (GIA), headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, has appointed Nicole Cook as the group’s managing director effective May 1. She joined the GIA full time on Feb. 11.

During the GIA’s 2019 cohort, Cook will work alongside current Managing Director Brian Hemesath. Her background includes expertise in finance, strategy, sales, technology, and raising capital, though much of her enthusiasm for leading the GIA stems from her most recent role as COO of Speeko, provider of an automated verbal communication and training platform, where she helped lead the startup through a technology accelerator.

Cook began her career in investment banking at BMO Capital Markets before transitioning to startup life where she worked for and advised a number of fintech and technology startups over the last decade, including Dwolla and Speeko. She also has experience as a seed stage investor, serving as managing partner of Five Island Ventures Partnership.

On May 1, Hemesath will step down as managing director to assume a role as the GIA’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR). Cook’s hiring and Hemesath’s continuing role are part of a comprehensive transition and strategic planning process which promotes continuity for the GIA, the annual 100-day accelerator program, and the GIA’s alumni.

Launched in 2015, the Global Insurance Accelerator (GIA) fosters innovation in and for the insurance industry via a mentor-driven, 100-day program.

Topics InsurTech Talent Iowa Human Resources