NU Online News Service, Dec.7, 2:18 p.m. EST

The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) said Kevin Kelso, chief marketing officer and executive vice president of the Farmers Group, will become the organization's chairman.

The Tampa, Fla. based non-profit that advocates for improved construction, also said Carl Hedde, vice president of Munich Re America, will become IBHS vice chairman.

Mr. Kelso will succeed Rod Matthews, vice president of property and casualty underwriting for State Farm Insurance, who ends a two-year term as chairman.

Mr. Hedde, who as the Institute's vice chairman will lead the organization's executive committee, succeeds Mr. Kelso, who served as IBHS vice chairman for the past two years.

"I look forward to working with the IBHS board and staff as we launch the new hazard research center in 2010," said Mr. Kelso. "Natural disasters are increasing in size and frequency, and no area of the U.S. is immune. The IBHS hazard research center will provide the scientific basis for building safer homes and business buildings."

"IBHS is very fortunate to have Kevin as our new chairman," said IBHS President and CEO Julie Rochman. "With the new lab coming on line, Kevin's extensive insurance and marketing experience are tremendous, timely assets for us. We look forward to Kevin's active, insightful leadership during what promises to be an exciting two-year period."

IBHS is an independent, nonprofit, scientific and educational organization supported by the property insurance industry.

The organization works to reduce the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other risks to residential and commercial property by conducting research and advocating improved construction, maintenance and preparation practices.

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Institute for Business & Home Safety Names Kelso Chairman

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