The Alabama Department of Insurance has named Dusty Smith as its new deputy commissioner, stepping into the role as Jimmy Gunn prepares to retire after more than three decades with the department. Smith, who started with the department in 2011, has been managing the consumer services division since 2019. Beginning next year, he will take the lead and oversee five key areas, including rates and forms, consumer services, actuarial services, producer licensing, and a new section focused on pharmacy benefits compliance.
Jimmy Gunn, who has been with the department for 36 years, will retire at the end of January 2026. He has a long history with the department, having headed the producer licensing division for 20 years before becoming deputy commissioner in 2020. Before his time at the department, Gunn gained experience as a rate analyst and worked with Southern Guaranty Insurance and Safeco Insurance.
Smith brings firsthand experience as a former insurance agent to his new role. His promotion marks a significant step as the department prepares for a change in leadership while continuing to oversee important regulatory areas in Alabama’s insurance market. The transition reflects the department’s commitment to steady leadership as Gunn’s retirement approaches.