Geof McKernan is a recognized innovator and frequently called-upon speaker in the insurance industry — dedicating his 35+ year career to building profitable specialty insurance programs and cultivating top-tier talent.
In 1990, Geof founded NSM Insurance Group and, through his visionary leadership, scaled the company to over $2 billion in premium across more than 30 specialty insurance programs. In April 2025, he successfully led the sale of NSM’s U.S. commercial division.
But Geof doesn’t sit still — and he doesn’t follow the status quo. Driven by a relentless entrepreneurial spirit, he launched Ignyte Insurance to push the boundaries of what’s possible in specialty insurance. With a bold vision for global growth, Geof is expanding Ignyte’s footprint through strategic M&A, including the acquisition of several high-growth travel medical and international health insurance brands with a global presence.
Under Geof’s leadership, Ignyte has quickly become home to a growing portfolio of dynamic specialty insurance companies spanning collector car, travel medical, international student health, leased equipment and specialist MGA platforms. Backed by scalable capital, transformative technology and deep operational support, Ignyte empowers its brands to grow, innovate and deliver exceptional service. Together, they manage over $650 million in premium and serve millions of customers across the U.S., UK, Europe, and Australia.
Geof embodies the grit, innovation and energy that has fueled the growth of his companies for more than three decades. While others shy away from complex or unconventional markets, he runs toward them — identifying high-performing companies and helping them scale through differentiated strategies, technology and talent.
He is also deeply committed to giving back and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation, a nonprofit that supports families of fallen first responders.
Geof holds a B.S. in Environmental Studies from Rutgers University, where he was a proud member of the men’s rowing team — a competitive spirit that still drives everything he does today.