Meet the Team

After successful runs with The Rule Company, Integro, and EPIC, Nick founded Koru to infuse renewed energy into the process of providing insurance solutions to all types of companies. While Nick has developed an expertise in construction and real estate, his clients depend on him for all things risk management. His tireless work ethic and industry knowledge are critical to Koru’s future, as he and the team build a formidable agency that is client-focused, service-driven, ethical, collaborative, creative, and proficient. Nick's ultimate ambition is helping clients realize peace of mind for their unique businesses.

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Kevin began his career with Marsh’s FINPRO group focusing on Executive Liability Coverages (Directors & Officers, Employment Practices Liability, Errors & Omissions, Cyber, Crime) in the early 2000’s. He then joined Aon to expand his product knowledge and client base. After Aon, Kevin developed a passion for the challenges of California businesses and joined the Venbrook Group to be better positioned to address the exposures of CA firms. Kevin opened and successfully led the Orange County Venbrook office until the firm sold to private equity. He is excited to dovetail industry innovations with the needs of Koru’s clients. Outside of work, Kevin enjoys playing with his cats, hence the nickname, Kevin Meowhoney.

In 1998, she transitioned to the retail brokerage world after being recruited by the Aon Risk Services Construction Unit.

Michelle continued to broaden her expertise by working with Swett & Crawford Los Angeles, as part of Jason White's Management Liability team. She has also spent several years in Orange County working on substantial construction and real estate risks for DLD Insurance Brokers and Clarke Marine Insurance.

On January 1, 2021, Michelle joined Koru Risk Management at its inception. She is enthusiastic about Koru's business plan and its innovative approach to risk management and insurance. Her wealth of experience and diverse background in underwriting, brokerage, and risk management positions her as a valuable asset to Koru Risk Management.

He spent the majority of his career serving as the Director of Legal and EVP for a publicly traded REIT where he focused on risk management, compliance, mergers & acquisitions, and business development. More recently, Joe owned and operated a property management firm, which he successfully sold to a national real estate company.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joe has a passion for nonprofit and volunteer work, having dedicated himself to organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Special Olympics Orange County, and Age Well Senior Services. He has raised more than $10 million as chair for nonprofit galas and currently serves as the Vice President of the board of directors for Age Well Senior Services, providing critical services, resources, and programs to Orange County's aging population. Joe’s wealth of experience, passion for giving back, and thought leadership make him a valuable asset to both Koru and the wider community. His strategic guidance and corporate growth expertise have helped drive success in business, while his philanthropic efforts have made a meaningful impact on the lives of many.

His expertise lies in risk management and employee benefits, where he's consistently added value through his broad and active network of subject matter experts. Throughout various stages of the business lifecycle, from startups to exits, Rob has successfully guided numerous clients. He's equally adept at working with smaller entrepreneurs as he is advising C-suite executives of Fortune 1000 firms, fostering enduring relationships built on his skillset and business acumen.

Rob takes pride in being acknowledged as a trusted resource for tackling complex issues. He thrives on thinking innovatively and facilitating connections for mutual benefit, both in his personal and professional endeavors.

Beyond his professional life, Rob finds fulfillment in family and community engagement. He and his wife Kara are proud parents to three children: Jake, Ava, and Dax. Rob's passion extends to youth sports, where he dedicates his time coaching multiple teams across different sports throughout the year. When he's not on the field, Rob unwinds by indulging in his hobby of maintaining saltwater reef aquariums or diving into a good book.

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Michael graduated with a business degree from the United States Air Force Academy, and later completed an MBA at the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley. Throughout his career, he has adeptly managed teams of varying sizes, ranging from small flight deck crews to entire unit mobilizations and deployments. Not only is he process-oriented, but he is also highly personable, making him an ideal addition to our company. While maintaining his role as a Captain at Southwest Airlines, Michael also concurrently offers risk management solutions to the business community, particularly within the aviation sector. While focusing on business development and fostering the Koru culture, Michael's greatest strength lies in building relationships.

Beyond his professional achievements, Michael's greatest source of pride and joy lies in his growing family, consisting of his wife and two young children—an energetic three-year-old son and an adorable one-year-old daughter. Away from work, Michael's passion is leather tooling, which allows him to express his creativity and hook his friends up with sweet wallets that showcase his intricate patterns or personalized motifs.  

CoCo has more than 35 years of experience in the insurance industry specializing in employee benefits. She brings a broad, deep skillset to Koru including expertise in both self-funded and fully insured benefits programs. Prior to Koru, CoCo served as a medical claims adjuster, eventually going on to help build a third-party administrator. She has worked for Arthur J. Gallagher, USI, Venbrook, and OneDigital, where she developed her background in operations, marketing, and servicing of clients. She has been successful at negotiating large group renewals and implementing the full spectrum of employee benefits coverage. CoCo has established and implemented plans for national accounts, including clients with several hundred to thousands of employees. CoCo holds a Group Benefits Disability Specialist (GBDS) designation. She was born and raised in California. She loves spending time with family & friends, working out, hiking, and live music.

A “life cycle” expert in commercial lines accounts, Cora’s an expert at managing every phase of the renewal process from start to finish and has the know-how to take on any account seamlessly and meticulously. Cora’s longstanding track record and commitment to servicing clients with true professionalism make her a shining star at Koru.

She hails from MST Insurance Solutions, where she served as Assistant VP. Her expertise includes managing diverse portfolios and providing strategic guidance for accounts ranging from supermarket chains to logistics and distribution companies.  She’s known for cultivating strong relationships with both clients and carriers, which aligns perfectly with our Koru culture.

Proficient in a diverse range of software applications from Microsoft Suite to insurance-specific tools like WinBroker, Applied System, and EPIC, Cris’ expertise spans across service commercial lines accounts, underwriting, sales, and marketing plans, among others. Cris enjoys walks on the beach and bodysurfing the wedge.

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Currently serving as a SeniorAccount Manager, she has successfully acted as the primary liaison for clients, addressing a range of insurance-related inquiries and ensuring exceptional service. Her commitment to maintaining accurate client records has proven vital in managing exposures, policy details, and premiums. With a robust background in client management and a dedication to excellence, Emily continues to thrive and grow in the dynamic world of insurance, leveraging her expertise to deliver comprehensive solutions for clients.

Currently studying for CIC designation - she is expanding her insurance knowledge by pursuing several risk management designations, CISR being completed in 2023.  

In her free time, she enjoys taking a drive in her car (nicknamed Mr. Hankey), trying new foods, hanging out with friends and family, and spoiling her dog, Arlo.

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