Our Speakers

Denise Johnson, a native of Oklahoma who grew up in Yukon, holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Central Oklahoma. Presently, she serves as the President/CEO of the Independent Insurance Agents of Oklahoma, colloquially known as "Big I Oklahoma.(BIGiOK)" Established in 1907 as the Oklahoma Association of Local Fire Insurance Agents, BIGiOK stands as the largest insurance trade association in the state. Boasting almost 340 independent insurance agency members, it represents over 2,700 independent insurance agents and their employees. The member agencies of BIGiOK vary in size from individual practitioners to some of the largest agencies in the region.

 

The policy direction of BIGiOK is determined by a board of directors elected annually at the convention. Implementation of these policies is overseen by a professional staff based in Oklahoma City. The organization's mission, outlined below, is executed through diverse programs crafted to enhance the business operations of independent insurance agencies. BIGiOK actively advocates for independent agents at both state and federal levels, interfacing with legislative, regulatory, and judicial bodies. At the national level, BIGiOK is affiliated with the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, with offices in Alexandria, Virginia, and Washington, DC.

 

Before assuming her role at BIGiOK, Denise held the position of Vice President at ECI Agency in Piedmont, OK, a family agency celebrating 57 years in business. She previously served as President of the Independent Insurance Agents of Greater Oklahoma City and made history as the first woman Chairman on the Executive Board of Directors for the Independent Insurance Agents of Oklahoma. Her tenure as the State Director representing Oklahoma on the National Board of Directors for IIABA involved active participation in the InVEST committee, focusing on scholarships and classroom-to-work programs. Additionally, Denise served as the Immediate Past President of the Independent Agents of Association Execs (IAAE), an association group uniting peers across the nation. In the insurance industry, she has been a passionate advocate, lobbying on both state and federal levels for crucial issues such as workers' compensation and tort reform. Denise's remarkable contributions were recognized in 2017 when she became a finalist for the IBA (Insurance Business Awards) Woman of Distinction. In 2018, she earned a place on the Hot 100 List, celebrating the best and brightest in the industry. More recently, she was named one of the Top 20 Most Admired CEOs for the Journal Record.

 

Denise, happily married to John, resides in their 123-year-old house in Yukon. The couple has three adult daughters: Lauren, married to Trevor Henson and residing in Tulsa with their two granddaughters; Avery Johnson Moore, married to Michael, who is the third-generation owner of the family agency ECI Agency; and Mallory Johnson. A breast cancer survivor, Denise draws strength and support from her family during her challenging journey. Beyond her professional life, she actively participates in her church, enjoys reading, and has a passion for travel.