american equity
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
AMERICAN EQUITY American Equity Senior Management:
Business Record | August 12, 2016
From Row (L-R), John Matovina, Ronald Grensteiner Back Row (L-R), Renee Montz, Jeff Lorenzen, Ted Johnson, Bruce Cheek
22
The Right People. “When it comes to the fundamentals of our success, our people are the backbone of it all,” says David Noble, Founder and Chairman of the Board at American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company.
Since opening its doors in 1995, American Equity has put a premium on the importance of maintaining its family culture and the principles that have made them a top-tier provider in the fixed index annuity market. This is particularly remarkable considering the West Des Moines-based fixed index annuity provider has gone from no contract owners to more than half-a-million across the country, and their team has grown from a few to more than 500. Today, American Equity is the number three all-time seller+ of fixed index annuity products and they are poised for continued success. “We’ve been doing this for more than 20 years. We have a reputation for being in the market all the time. We’re predictable,” says Ronald Grensteiner, President at American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company. “We stick with our business principles, because they have served us, our policyholders, our distribution partners and our shareholders well over the years.”
THE RIGHT PRODUCTS. American Equity’s robust portfolio of fixed index annuity products is built with the integrity to meet the needs of today’s changing retirement environment and the flexibility to help clients reach their long-term financial goals. Plus, with options like guaranteed lifetime income benefits available, contract owners can count on more than sustained income—they can count on the peace of mind to enjoy it.
The Right Time. More than 10,000 Americans reach retirement age every day, and will continue to cross that threshold at that rate for the next 14 years.* Meanwhile, factors like an unpredictable market and historically low interest rates have a generation of pre-retirees and retirees looking for reliable longterm solutions. They want a plan that preserves hard-earned dollars and can guarantee an income source for life. They want to go to sleep at night knowing—no matter what the market does—their money is safe. “America’s retirees need the principal protection, safety and the lifetime income promise that our policies provide,” says John Matovina, Chief Executive Officer and President at American Equity Investment Life Holding Company. “We intend to prudently manage the company while maintaining the highest levels of service to our customers.”
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
Leaders in Insurance | special advertising section
American Equity headquarters in West Des Moines
The Right Place. The Des Moines area is a global hub of the insurance industry. As a leader in their market sector, American Equity takes its role as a corporate citizen in its community and in the industry seriously. Throughout the years, American Equity has attracted hundreds of the area’s talented and skilled insurance professionals. Meanwhile, the company’s culture has continued to thrive, and since 2011 its team members have named it a Des Moines Register “Top Workplace” for five consecutive years. Furthermore, this past year, the company held its first onsite career fair, which drew in hundreds more local professionals across a variety of disciplines.
“We see the Accelerator as a great opportunity for the industry as well as our city,” says Matovina. “Since its founding we have welcomed teams from across the globe to Des Moines, as they have taken part in the initiative. It is exciting to be a part of an effort so important to the global insurance industry and so beneficial to our local community.”
The Right Direction. Looking ahead, American Equity remains steadfast to the values that have established them as a perennial leader in the fixed index annuity market. Whether it’s as simple as team members answering phone calls in a matter of seconds, or developing flexible products that adapt to a changing world—American Equity is committed to the people they serve. When David Noble founded the company more than 20 years ago, he established a business culture where people and relationships are paramount. Those priorities have been fundamental to American Equity’s past success, and will continue to be for future generations.
David Noble, Founder and Chairman of the Board at American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company
American Equity – The one who works for you! ® •
$41 Billion in Assets**
•
Over 35,000 Agents
•
540,000 Contract Owners
•
500+ Employees
•
Listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:AEL)
•
#3 All-Time in Indexed Annuity Sales+
•
American Owned and Operated
+Source: Wink’s Sales & Market Report 1998-2015 *Pew Research Center Population Projections, 2010 *Social Security Administration – Annual Performance Plan for Fiscal Year 2013 **Statutory total assets as of December 31, 2015. Statutory liabilities as of December 31, 2015 are $39 Billion
Business Record | August 12, 2016
In 2014, American Equity, along with six other local insurance companies, and the Greater Des Moines Partnership launched the Global Insurance Accelerator. This mentor-driven business accelerator is designed to foster innovation in the insurance industry by supporting startups targeting the global insurance industry. Each year, a class of six different teams is selected and receives seed funding, access to mentors and 100 days of onsite support in Des Moines.
23
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
THE IMT GROUP Business Record | August 12, 2016
4445 Corporate Drive West Des Moines, IA 50266 800-274-3531 www.imtins.com
24
Commitment to Success For 132 years, the “Be Worry Free with IMT” company has been making people whole again after a loss. That is the very essence of our being, and one we believe we do well. Today, our core values remain at the center of our business. The success of The IMT Group is attributed to our culture; the heart and soul of our company deeply defined by our values.
MUTUALLY BENEFITTING CULTURE We are a Midwest regional mutual company that values our relationships with Independent Insurance Agents. We also strongly believe that in order to be successful, you must enjoy what you are doing. Our friendly, family-oriented employees carry the same Midwest values that our agents and insureds carry. We have received Top Workplace awards for Midsized Companies in Iowa the previous three consecutive years. We were ranked as the #5 Top Workplace in 2015, #2 in 2014, and #4 in 2013. This recognition illustrates the fun, flexible, and fair work environment we believe in.
PARTNERS IN THE COMMUNITY The IMT Group lends a hand, as well as, contributes financial donations to a countless number of organizations in and around our writing states. We recognize the importance of commitment to the community; offering all employees paid time off for volunteering. In return, The IMT Group employees are actively involved in supporting our communities by participating in various volunteer events in and around our writing states. We’re fortunate to be in a position where we can continue to grow. Together with almost 975 Independent Insurance Agencies, we offer insurance products in six states: Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. We currently employ just over 285 employees throughout our writing territory. We’ve got an eye on the past and a keen sense for the future, continuing to live up to our slogan, “Be Worry Free with IMT!”
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
LEADERS IN INSURANCE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
James P. Brannen, Chief Executive Officer
FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines 515-225-5400 www.FBFS.com
PROTECTING LIVELIHOODS AND FUTURES For more than 75 years client/members have trusted Farm Bureau Financial Services to help them protect what matters most in their lives and to be there for them when the unexpected happens. Today, we have 4,300 agents, field representatives and employees in eight Midwestern and Western states doing just that. We offer life insurance, annuities and property-casualty insurance and we’re committed to providing the right coverage at the right time. And, with a SuperCheck®, our agents are always on the lookout for gaps in coverage or potential discounts for their client/members.
STRONG AND GROWING Headquartered in West Des Moines, Farm Bureau Financial Services is the consumer brand under which insurance and financial services holding company FBL Financial Group, Inc. conducts business. The company is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FFG.
“At Farm Bureau, we protect livelihoods and futures. As employees we know we’re making a difference in the lives of our client/members. Our leaders truly believe that people are the company’s greatest asset. It feels like family here and our people are its core.” — Kevin Anderson, Director
Our companies and employees have a deep-rooted commitment to serving the community. Our commitment to doing the right thing – in business practices and in the community – is embedded in our corporate culture. Management, employees and agents regularly contribute their time, talents and dollars to a number of organizations including the United Way, JDRF, Children and Families of Iowa and Variety – The Children’s Charity, as well as Habitat for Humanity and the Food Bank of Iowa. We jointly sponsor the Iowa Hunger Summit with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, and are a proud supporter of the World Food Prize’s Norman E. Borlaug Hall of Laureates.
Business Record | August 12, 2016
GIVING BACK IN THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE
25
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
Business Record | August 12, 2016
GRINNELL MUTUAL
26
Free ice cream doesn’t seem like it has much to do with the business of insurance. But it does have to do with employee satisfaction, which is at the very top of the to-do list of Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company’s president and CEO Larry Jansen.
Grinnell Mutual employs about 750 people, two-thirds of whom work in the company’s headquarters just south of the city of Grinnell. It is the country’s 114th–largest property and casualty company. “Our employees are our most valuable asset,” Jansen said. “We want them to enjoy working here.” Happy employees are a big part of Grinnell Mutual’s success and free ice cream is only one small perk. Larger scale perks include a free on-site health clinic and fitness center, myriad educational opportunities, employee referral bonuses, paid wellness and volunteer time off, and many others.
MOVING FORWARD The company’s investment in its employees and in personal, customercentered service for its member mutuals, agents, and policyholders has paid dividends. 2015 marked another record-breaking year in terms of underwriting results and surplus growth, the latter of which surpassed the half-billion-dollar mark. Total assets topped $1 billion last year. Grinnell Mutual has earned an A rating from A.M. Best since 1991; has been named an Iowa Top Workplace for five consecutive years; and was recently named to Ward’s Top 50 Property and Casualty companies. The 1,600 independent agents in Grinnell Mutual’s writing territory offer a full line of personal and commercial property and casualty products such as auto, recreational vehicle, farm casualty, small business, crop hail, and more. Grinnell Mutual also provides reinsurance protection and services to 250 partner farm mutual insurance companies, and is the largest primary reinsurer of farm mutual companies in North America. “We play a significant role in protecting the financial security of home and farm owners, and we pride ourselves on being there for our customers at their most difficult times,” Jansen said. Grinnell Mutual’s future looks brighter than ever and we’re always looking for great employees who value a family environment and who always put the customer first. Learn more about Grinnell Mutual at grinnellmutual.com.
Regional Vice President, Continental Western Group
How would you describe your company? Continental Western Group (CWG) is a regional W. R. Berkley Company, specializing in commercial lines property and casualty insurance, operating out of five regional offices. Our employees live in the same communities as our customers as we believe local presence provides a better understanding of the businesses we insure and the ability to offer consistent insurance solutions with excellent customer service. Our goal is to be the strong, local and trusted choice for our customers.
HOW DO YOU ENGAGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY? Giving back to our local communities is a deeply held value at CWG. Employees are encouraged to become involved with local organizations through company sponsored events, and paid time off to volunteer at charities of their choice. In addition, CWG, in partnership with the W. R. Berkley Charitable Foundation, awards grants to local charitable organizations.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST SHIFT IN PHILOSOPHY REGARDING INSURANCE? The commercial property and casualty segment continues to evolve as companies and agencies search for ways to differentiate themselves in this competitive marketplace. Offering robust coverage, competitive rates and providing an ease of doing business is step one. Today, agents and policyholders are also looking for a more personalized, value-added touch. We have responded to this through personalized claims service, engaged safety management personnel and local underwriting teams ready to provide customized service to our agencies and policyholders.
IS THE MARKET BECOMING MORE PROACTIVE VS REACTIVE? Companies and professional agencies that drive the market today are more strategic than ever. Contemplating the market cycles, organizations assess their strengths and weaknesses, develop operational objectives and implement long-term strategies. Competition, technology and customer demand will always create an element of reactivity, however; when the market is proactive, external influences are planned for, recognized and addressed quickly.
Business Record | August 12, 2016
JODY KLOSTERMANN
Jody leads Continental Western Group’s Great Rivers Region consisting of Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin. Jody has held various leadership roles throughout the Midwest during her extensive insurance career.
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LEADERS IN INSURANCE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
27
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
(L-R) Jennifer Webster, Gail Hilsabeck, Rob Beeler, Jennifer Browne, Debbie Dean
BENEFIT SOURCE, INC.
Business Record | August 12, 2016
Our Foundation Benefit Source, Inc. (BSI) has been designing, implementing and administering employee benefit programs for nearly 36 866-526-6581 years. Our original purpose [email protected] was to reduce our client’s risk www.benefitssourceinc.com exposure while easing their administrative workload. This remains a top priority today in a very complex healthcare environment which continues to shift.
28
We care about the purpose of our clients! Just as every client that we serve is unique, so are the services that they desire and need. As we began to anticipate the changes that the ACA and other legislation would bring to the face of employee benefits, we began to look at the way that benefits were built. We knew there had to be a better way to build and connect employees, creating the greatest return on investment.
BENEFITS AS A RESULT OF SOMETHING BIGGER Every organization was created on purpose. Out of this belief, we created Onebody3. Onebody3 was created to bring purpose to change. Our staff works closely with BSI to assist organizations in building the cultures that are “On Purpose”. With the immense amount of change happening in the administration of employee benefits, many organizations are struggling to know how to move and what to move towards. This will be unique to each culture depending upon who they are and what their purpose is in the world. The healthcare challenge is here and we don’t see relief coming anytime soon. Organizations are looking for experts that can think past the numbers and can strategically help them know how to move. Onebody3 works to guide our clients to make sure their purpose is held as they determine the how and what of their strategy.
BUILDING OF COMMUNITY—2KNOW COMMUNITY We believe that community in times of complexity can be an invaluable resource. When there are so many things changing, the sense that one is not alone becomes imperative to the growth, energy and life of a member and their organizations. We have formed a series of communities that allow people with common purpose to gather and to work through the challenges in their industry. This space allows for members to grow and connect. Relationships are the key to being “On Purpose” in a world where complexity and change are never ending.
President and CEO, Dana Ramundt (left), and Executive Vice President, Cory Holland (right) of The Dana Company
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LEADERS IN INSURANCE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
After 17 years as an agent working for others, Dana Ramundt founded The Dana Company in 1989. This independent insurance agency focused on building relationships with both insurance companies and clients who had an interest in doing business with people they knew, trusted and could depend on when the situation dictated. 27 years later, his efforts have developed into an organization serving over 6000 clients in 27 states with over 40 insurance companies and an incredible team of 30 of the most dedicated insurance professionals in the business. A locally owned business, the Agency has been recognized both inside and outside the insurance industry for its leadership. The Dana Company has been named a “Leading Partner” by EMC, a member of the Distinguished Leadership Circle by Integrity Ins. Co. and has been a member of West Bend Mutual’s Partners in Excellence for over 17 years. Annually, the Agency selects a local charity with which to become involved both collectively and individually.
THE DANA COMPANY 12345 University Ave, Suite 300 Des Moines, IA 50325 515-224-4391 www.thedanaco.com
The Dana Company performs best when people come to them with their insurance problems. Consumers and business owners alike, have the need to get sound advice from professionals who care on a personal level. They use technology to enhance the client experience, not hide from the client. When clients call The Dana Company they are greeted by a live person and given choices as to their request for service. Clients never have to call twice for the same request or work through a maze of voice prompts on a telephone. Some say it’s kind of like doing business “The old fashioned way.”
D
THE DANA COMPANY
With the professional service of its staff, the insurance companies they use to place coverage, and a perpetuation plan in place to remain local, The Dana Company is poised and ready for the next 25 years. They don’t sell insurance, they build relationships. If you have an issue or concern with your personal or business insurance OR just want a second opinion, call The Dana Company at 515-224-4391. They perform best when you need them most!
Business Record | August 12, 2016
Home Office
Outside the insurance industry, Dana Ramundt was named the inaugural Alumnus of the Year by The University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business in 2014, was named by “Insurance Business America” magazine to their “Hot 100” list, recognizing his national contributions to the insurance industry and in June, 2015, received The University of Iowa Alumni Association’s prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award for Service for his efforts in establishing the Vaughan Institute of Risk Management and Insurance at the University. In May of 2016, he was inducted into the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame.
29
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
AMERICAN EQUITY American Equity Senior Management:
Business Record | August 12, 2016
From Row (L-R), John Matovina, Ronald Grensteiner Back Row (L-R), Renee Montz, Jeff Lorenzen, Ted Johnson, Bruce Cheek
22
The Right People. “When it comes to the fundamentals of our success, our people are the backbone of it all,” says David Noble, Founder and Chairman of the Board at American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company.
Since opening its doors in 1995, American Equity has put a premium on the importance of maintaining its family culture and the principles that have made them a top-tier provider in the fixed index annuity market. This is particularly remarkable considering the West Des Moines-based fixed index annuity provider has gone from no contract owners to more than half-a-million across the country, and their team has grown from a few to more than 500. Today, American Equity is the number three all-time seller+ of fixed index annuity products and they are poised for continued success. “We’ve been doing this for more than 20 years. We have a reputation for being in the market all the time. We’re predictable,” says Ronald Grensteiner, President at American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company. “We stick with our business principles, because they have served us, our policyholders, our distribution partners and our shareholders well over the years.”
THE RIGHT PRODUCTS. American Equity’s robust portfolio of fixed index annuity products is built with the integrity to meet the needs of today’s changing retirement environment and the flexibility to help clients reach their long-term financial goals. Plus, with options like guaranteed lifetime income benefits available, contract owners can count on more than sustained income—they can count on the peace of mind to enjoy it.
The Right Time. More than 10,000 Americans reach retirement age every day, and will continue to cross that threshold at that rate for the next 14 years.* Meanwhile, factors like an unpredictable market and historically low interest rates have a generation of pre-retirees and retirees looking for reliable longterm solutions. They want a plan that preserves hard-earned dollars and can guarantee an income source for life. They want to go to sleep at night knowing—no matter what the market does—their money is safe. “America’s retirees need the principal protection, safety and the lifetime income promise that our policies provide,” says John Matovina, Chief Executive Officer and President at American Equity Investment Life Holding Company. “We intend to prudently manage the company while maintaining the highest levels of service to our customers.”
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
Leaders in Insurance | special advertising section
American Equity headquarters in West Des Moines
The Right Place. The Des Moines area is a global hub of the insurance industry. As a leader in their market sector, American Equity takes its role as a corporate citizen in its community and in the industry seriously. Throughout the years, American Equity has attracted hundreds of the area’s talented and skilled insurance professionals. Meanwhile, the company’s culture has continued to thrive, and since 2011 its team members have named it a Des Moines Register “Top Workplace” for five consecutive years. Furthermore, this past year, the company held its first onsite career fair, which drew in hundreds more local professionals across a variety of disciplines.
“We see the Accelerator as a great opportunity for the industry as well as our city,” says Matovina. “Since its founding we have welcomed teams from across the globe to Des Moines, as they have taken part in the initiative. It is exciting to be a part of an effort so important to the global insurance industry and so beneficial to our local community.”
The Right Direction. Looking ahead, American Equity remains steadfast to the values that have established them as a perennial leader in the fixed index annuity market. Whether it’s as simple as team members answering phone calls in a matter of seconds, or developing flexible products that adapt to a changing world—American Equity is committed to the people they serve. When David Noble founded the company more than 20 years ago, he established a business culture where people and relationships are paramount. Those priorities have been fundamental to American Equity’s past success, and will continue to be for future generations.
David Noble, Founder and Chairman of the Board at American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company
American Equity – The one who works for you! ® •
$41 Billion in Assets**
•
Over 35,000 Agents
•
540,000 Contract Owners
•
500+ Employees
•
Listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:AEL)
•
#3 All-Time in Indexed Annuity Sales+
•
American Owned and Operated
+Source: Wink’s Sales & Market Report 1998-2015 *Pew Research Center Population Projections, 2010 *Social Security Administration – Annual Performance Plan for Fiscal Year 2013 **Statutory total assets as of December 31, 2015. Statutory liabilities as of December 31, 2015 are $39 Billion
Business Record | August 12, 2016
In 2014, American Equity, along with six other local insurance companies, and the Greater Des Moines Partnership launched the Global Insurance Accelerator. This mentor-driven business accelerator is designed to foster innovation in the insurance industry by supporting startups targeting the global insurance industry. Each year, a class of six different teams is selected and receives seed funding, access to mentors and 100 days of onsite support in Des Moines.
23
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
THE IMT GROUP Business Record | August 12, 2016
4445 Corporate Drive West Des Moines, IA 50266 800-274-3531 www.imtins.com
24
Commitment to Success For 132 years, the “Be Worry Free with IMT” company has been making people whole again after a loss. That is the very essence of our being, and one we believe we do well. Today, our core values remain at the center of our business. The success of The IMT Group is attributed to our culture; the heart and soul of our company deeply defined by our values.
MUTUALLY BENEFITTING CULTURE We are a Midwest regional mutual company that values our relationships with Independent Insurance Agents. We also strongly believe that in order to be successful, you must enjoy what you are doing. Our friendly, family-oriented employees carry the same Midwest values that our agents and insureds carry. We have received Top Workplace awards for Midsized Companies in Iowa the previous three consecutive years. We were ranked as the #5 Top Workplace in 2015, #2 in 2014, and #4 in 2013. This recognition illustrates the fun, flexible, and fair work environment we believe in.
PARTNERS IN THE COMMUNITY The IMT Group lends a hand, as well as, contributes financial donations to a countless number of organizations in and around our writing states. We recognize the importance of commitment to the community; offering all employees paid time off for volunteering. In return, The IMT Group employees are actively involved in supporting our communities by participating in various volunteer events in and around our writing states. We’re fortunate to be in a position where we can continue to grow. Together with almost 975 Independent Insurance Agencies, we offer insurance products in six states: Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. We currently employ just over 285 employees throughout our writing territory. We’ve got an eye on the past and a keen sense for the future, continuing to live up to our slogan, “Be Worry Free with IMT!”
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
LEADERS IN INSURANCE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
James P. Brannen, Chief Executive Officer
FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines 515-225-5400 www.FBFS.com
PROTECTING LIVELIHOODS AND FUTURES For more than 75 years client/members have trusted Farm Bureau Financial Services to help them protect what matters most in their lives and to be there for them when the unexpected happens. Today, we have 4,300 agents, field representatives and employees in eight Midwestern and Western states doing just that. We offer life insurance, annuities and property-casualty insurance and we’re committed to providing the right coverage at the right time. And, with a SuperCheck®, our agents are always on the lookout for gaps in coverage or potential discounts for their client/members.
STRONG AND GROWING Headquartered in West Des Moines, Farm Bureau Financial Services is the consumer brand under which insurance and financial services holding company FBL Financial Group, Inc. conducts business. The company is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FFG.
“At Farm Bureau, we protect livelihoods and futures. As employees we know we’re making a difference in the lives of our client/members. Our leaders truly believe that people are the company’s greatest asset. It feels like family here and our people are its core.” — Kevin Anderson, Director
Our companies and employees have a deep-rooted commitment to serving the community. Our commitment to doing the right thing – in business practices and in the community – is embedded in our corporate culture. Management, employees and agents regularly contribute their time, talents and dollars to a number of organizations including the United Way, JDRF, Children and Families of Iowa and Variety – The Children’s Charity, as well as Habitat for Humanity and the Food Bank of Iowa. We jointly sponsor the Iowa Hunger Summit with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, and are a proud supporter of the World Food Prize’s Norman E. Borlaug Hall of Laureates.
Business Record | August 12, 2016
GIVING BACK IN THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE
25
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
Business Record | August 12, 2016
GRINNELL MUTUAL
26
Free ice cream doesn’t seem like it has much to do with the business of insurance. But it does have to do with employee satisfaction, which is at the very top of the to-do list of Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company’s president and CEO Larry Jansen.
Grinnell Mutual employs about 750 people, two-thirds of whom work in the company’s headquarters just south of the city of Grinnell. It is the country’s 114th–largest property and casualty company. “Our employees are our most valuable asset,” Jansen said. “We want them to enjoy working here.” Happy employees are a big part of Grinnell Mutual’s success and free ice cream is only one small perk. Larger scale perks include a free on-site health clinic and fitness center, myriad educational opportunities, employee referral bonuses, paid wellness and volunteer time off, and many others.
MOVING FORWARD The company’s investment in its employees and in personal, customercentered service for its member mutuals, agents, and policyholders has paid dividends. 2015 marked another record-breaking year in terms of underwriting results and surplus growth, the latter of which surpassed the half-billion-dollar mark. Total assets topped $1 billion last year. Grinnell Mutual has earned an A rating from A.M. Best since 1991; has been named an Iowa Top Workplace for five consecutive years; and was recently named to Ward’s Top 50 Property and Casualty companies. The 1,600 independent agents in Grinnell Mutual’s writing territory offer a full line of personal and commercial property and casualty products such as auto, recreational vehicle, farm casualty, small business, crop hail, and more. Grinnell Mutual also provides reinsurance protection and services to 250 partner farm mutual insurance companies, and is the largest primary reinsurer of farm mutual companies in North America. “We play a significant role in protecting the financial security of home and farm owners, and we pride ourselves on being there for our customers at their most difficult times,” Jansen said. Grinnell Mutual’s future looks brighter than ever and we’re always looking for great employees who value a family environment and who always put the customer first. Learn more about Grinnell Mutual at grinnellmutual.com.
Regional Vice President, Continental Western Group
How would you describe your company? Continental Western Group (CWG) is a regional W. R. Berkley Company, specializing in commercial lines property and casualty insurance, operating out of five regional offices. Our employees live in the same communities as our customers as we believe local presence provides a better understanding of the businesses we insure and the ability to offer consistent insurance solutions with excellent customer service. Our goal is to be the strong, local and trusted choice for our customers.
HOW DO YOU ENGAGE IN YOUR COMMUNITY? Giving back to our local communities is a deeply held value at CWG. Employees are encouraged to become involved with local organizations through company sponsored events, and paid time off to volunteer at charities of their choice. In addition, CWG, in partnership with the W. R. Berkley Charitable Foundation, awards grants to local charitable organizations.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST SHIFT IN PHILOSOPHY REGARDING INSURANCE? The commercial property and casualty segment continues to evolve as companies and agencies search for ways to differentiate themselves in this competitive marketplace. Offering robust coverage, competitive rates and providing an ease of doing business is step one. Today, agents and policyholders are also looking for a more personalized, value-added touch. We have responded to this through personalized claims service, engaged safety management personnel and local underwriting teams ready to provide customized service to our agencies and policyholders.
IS THE MARKET BECOMING MORE PROACTIVE VS REACTIVE? Companies and professional agencies that drive the market today are more strategic than ever. Contemplating the market cycles, organizations assess their strengths and weaknesses, develop operational objectives and implement long-term strategies. Competition, technology and customer demand will always create an element of reactivity, however; when the market is proactive, external influences are planned for, recognized and addressed quickly.
Business Record | August 12, 2016
JODY KLOSTERMANN
Jody leads Continental Western Group’s Great Rivers Region consisting of Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin. Jody has held various leadership roles throughout the Midwest during her extensive insurance career.
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
LEADERS IN INSURANCE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
27
businessrecord.com | Twitter: @businessrecord
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | LEADERS IN INSURANCE
(L-R) Jennifer Webster, Gail Hilsabeck, Rob Beeler, Jennifer Browne, Debbie Dean
BENEFIT SOURCE, INC.
Business Record | August 12, 2016
Our Foundation Benefit Source, Inc. (BSI) has been designing, implementing and administering employee benefit programs for nearly 36 866-526-6581 years. Our original purpose [email protected] was to reduce our client’s risk www.benefitssourceinc.com exposure while easing their administrative workload. This remains a top priority today in a very complex healthcare environment which continues to shift.
28
We care about the purpose of our clients! Just as every client that we serve is unique, so are the services that they desire and need. As we began to anticipate the changes that the ACA and other legislation would bring to the face of employee benefits, we began to look at the way that benefits were built. We knew there had to be a better way to build and connect employees, creating the greatest return on investment.
BENEFITS AS A RESULT OF SOMETHING BIGGER Every organization was created on purpose. Out of this belief, we created Onebody3. Onebody3 was created to bring purpose to change. Our staff works closely with BSI to assist organizations in building the cultures that are “On Purpose”. With the immense amount of change happening in the administration of employee benefits, many organizations are struggling to know how to move and what to move towards. This will be unique to each culture depending upon who they are and what their purpose is in the world. The healthcare challenge is here and we don’t see relief coming anytime soon. Organizations are looking for experts that can think past the numbers and can strategically help them know how to move. Onebody3 works to guide our clients to make sure their purpose is held as they determine the how and what of their strategy.
BUILDING OF COMMUNITY—2KNOW COMMUNITY We believe that community in times of complexity can be an invaluable resource. When there are so many things changing, the sense that one is not alone becomes imperative to the growth, energy and life of a member and their organizations. We have formed a series of communities that allow people with common purpose to gather and to work through the challenges in their industry. This space allows for members to grow and connect. Relationships are the key to being “On Purpose” in a world where complexity and change are never ending.
President and CEO, Dana Ramundt (left), and Executive Vice President, Cory Holland (right) of The Dana Company
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After 17 years as an agent working for others, Dana Ramundt founded The Dana Company in 1989. This independent insurance agency focused on building relationships with both insurance companies and clients who had an interest in doing business with people they knew, trusted and could depend on when the situation dictated. 27 years later, his efforts have developed into an organization serving over 6000 clients in 27 states with over 40 insurance companies and an incredible team of 30 of the most dedicated insurance professionals in the business. A locally owned business, the Agency has been recognized both inside and outside the insurance industry for its leadership. The Dana Company has been named a “Leading Partner” by EMC, a member of the Distinguished Leadership Circle by Integrity Ins. Co. and has been a member of West Bend Mutual’s Partners in Excellence for over 17 years. Annually, the Agency selects a local charity with which to become involved both collectively and individually.
THE DANA COMPANY 12345 University Ave, Suite 300 Des Moines, IA 50325 515-224-4391 www.thedanaco.com
The Dana Company performs best when people come to them with their insurance problems. Consumers and business owners alike, have the need to get sound advice from professionals who care on a personal level. They use technology to enhance the client experience, not hide from the client. When clients call The Dana Company they are greeted by a live person and given choices as to their request for service. Clients never have to call twice for the same request or work through a maze of voice prompts on a telephone. Some say it’s kind of like doing business “The old fashioned way.”
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THE DANA COMPANY
With the professional service of its staff, the insurance companies they use to place coverage, and a perpetuation plan in place to remain local, The Dana Company is poised and ready for the next 25 years. They don’t sell insurance, they build relationships. If you have an issue or concern with your personal or business insurance OR just want a second opinion, call The Dana Company at 515-224-4391. They perform best when you need them most!
Business Record | August 12, 2016
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Outside the insurance industry, Dana Ramundt was named the inaugural Alumnus of the Year by The University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business in 2014, was named by “Insurance Business America” magazine to their “Hot 100” list, recognizing his national contributions to the insurance industry and in June, 2015, received The University of Iowa Alumni Association’s prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award for Service for his efforts in establishing the Vaughan Institute of Risk Management and Insurance at the University. In May of 2016, he was inducted into the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame.
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