Derek Valdo, a council member for Acoma Pueblo, has been named chief executive officer of AMERIND Risk Management Corporation.

Valdo, who previously served as director of safety services, is the first Native American to lead AMERIND. He has 11 years of certified risk management experience.

"I am extremely humbled and honored to be named the new CEO of AMERIND" said Mr. Valdo "I am very excited for this opportunity to serve Indian Country and lead AMERIND's efforts in providing cost effective coverage, keeping the financial resources and building capacity by and for Indian Country."

Chairman of the board Phil Bush added: "We have all the confidence that Mr. Valdo, with his background, experience and knowledge of tribal issues will carry this corporation forward. He has full support of the AMERIND Board of Directors."

Valdo replaces Kent Paul, who stepped down this week after 13 years as CEO. "The board extends their gratitude to Mr. Paul for his commitment to AMERIND and Indian Country," Bush said.

AMERIND is a multi-tribal not-profit corporation chartered under federal law to provide tribes with services to protect life and property from the devastation of fire, natural disaster and other unforeseen events.