Douglas Jackson, current president of the Society of Registered Professional Adjusters (RPA), was crowned the 2008 Claims Professional of the Year at a special award ceremony held on Tuesday, June 10, 2008 during the 12th Annual ACE America's Claims Event. Sponsored by New York-based law firm Smith & Brink, P.C. and Claims Magazine, the award recognizes overall excellence in the claim-handling arena. Recipients are usually involved heavily in continuing education initiatives that foster a sense of commitment to not only upholding the integrity of current industry practices but also improving upon them.

Throughout his more than 30 years of experience as a claim professional, Mr. Jackson has worked as a staff adjuster with both commercial and residential carriers. He now serves as president of southern California-based Southwest Claims Service, an independent insurance adjusting company that Mr. Jackson started with his wife, Elaine. The company provides claim adjusting and consultation services to commercial and personal line insurers, with a primary focus on property and casualty lines.

Early on, it was apparent to the California Association of Independent Insurance Adjusters (CAIIA) board that Mr. Jackson was a consummate claim professional extremely worthy of such a distinction. In a letter nominating Mr. Jackson for this award, Peter Schifrin, CAIIA president, cited the RPA president's tireless efforts to rejuvenate the RPA board, all of which has culminated in an increase in membership and heightened organizational credibility. Mr. Schifrin also emphasized successful education initiatives and other contributions.