USI in the News

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the opening of its first San Diego-based office. The new office, located at 4370 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite 310, in San Diego’s University City neighborhood, opened on Monday, November 15, 2021, and accommodates a team of local property/casualty and employee benefit consultants, technical resources and account management professionals.

“The opening of our new San Diego office affirms our commitment to delivering the innovative insurance and risk management solutions local businesses and individuals throughout San Diego and the greater Southern California region deserve,” stated USI’s President, Tim Prichard. “USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and expertise, and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom-line impact.”

“We are thrilled to establish a dedicated office presence in San Diego in continued support of our valued clients and local team members,” stated USI’s Regional Chief Human Resources Officer, Jan Mello. “USI employs approximately 400 professionals across 12 different office locations in California, and we look forward to making additional hiring investments in sales talent and expertise in the local San Diego market throughout 2022.”

Founded in 1994 in Sherman Oaks, California, USI started with a single office of $6.5 million of revenue and 40 employees. Today, USI has grown to become one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, with over two billion in revenue and more than 8,000 professionals in approximately 200 offices across the United States.

To contact USI’s San Diego office team directly, call 760-795-9701 or email usiwest@usi.com. To learn more about USI’s best-in-class solutions and services, visit www.usi.com.

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit www.usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the acquisition of Bellevue, Washington-based Griffin MacLean Insurance Brokers. Founded in 1981, Griffin MacLean is an independent insurance brokerage operation serving businesses and individuals throughout Washington and Alaska. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Commenting on the new partnership, Griffin MacLean President, Paul Dent, stated: “For the last 40 years, we’ve taken pride in our team’s personalized, consultative approach to delivering innovative insurance solutions and risk management advice to clients. By joining forces with USI, we look forward to continuing this tradition by providing our valued clients access to an expanded set of tools, solutions and expertise, including the USI ONE Advantage^®.”

Christopher Prentice, USI’s regional CEO, added: “We are thrilled to welcome the talented professionals from Griffin MacLean to the USI family. Partnering as one, we look forward to strengthening USI’s commercial and personal risk expertise in service to our current and future clients throughout Washington state and beyond.”

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

Crop insurance presents unique challenges and opportunities as it is purchased by agricultural producers and subsidized by the federal government. While this insurance covers the loss made by natural causes such as deep freezes, flood, drought, excessive moisture, disease, hot weather, and other forms of natural calamities, it also covers what can be generations of family labor and investment. The current demand facing the market is a rise in coverage for specialty crops as consumer eating habits and preferences change. Recently, USI’s National Agricultural Practice Leader, Ryan Chartier, shared with Business Insurance how USI operates in this growing market and delivers the USI ONE Advantage to help today’s agricultural producers. Read the article (free online account registration required).

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the impact of its eighth annual USI Gives Back campaign, an award-winning social responsibility program, focused on supporting positive change in local communities. Throughout the summer, USI team members volunteered their time and talents to support local communities through in-person and virtual volunteer events throughout the United States and Europe. The combined impact of these volunteer initiatives positively impacted more than 160,400 lives, totaling over 11,600 hours of volunteerism.

“USI is privileged to have such passionate and caring team members who enjoy coming together to solve problems, both in the marketplace and in our local communities,” stated Kim Van Orman, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for USI. “I am extremely proud of the positive impact our teams created through this year’s USI Gives Back campaign, and their commitment to making a difference in their local communities while carefully navigating COVID-19 health and safety restrictions.”

USI’s Chairman and CEO, Michael Sicard, added: “Our annual USI Gives Back community service campaign allows our team members to spend time together outside the office while giving back in a meaningful way and uplifting the communities we serve. This year’s campaign created a tremendous impact, and I couldn’t be prouder of the commitment of our more than 8,000 team members to this extremely important and meaningful program.”

For additional information on USI Gives Back, visit www.usi.com.

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. Headquartered in Valhalla, New York, USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

USI Affinity today announced an expanded partnership with CNA, effective January 1, 2022, to provide a comprehensive Lawyers' Professional Liability insurance offering for attorneys and law firms in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Together, USI Affinity and CNA will bring a premier marketing team with industry-leading expertise and resources to deliver insurance products and services for small and large law firms.

Commenting on the announcement, CNA’s Vice President of Underwriting, Mike Furlong, stated: "USI Affinity is one of the largest and most respected specialty brokers and program managers in the Lawyers' Professional Liability insurance marketplace. Our decision to enhance our offering, improve our rates and bring it to market with USI Affinity demonstrates our focus upon excellence in our offering to attorneys and law firms.*”

USI Affinity’s Senior Vice President and Professional Liability Practice Leader, Mike Mooney, added: “By expanding our partnership with CNA, we are increasing USI Affinity’s ability to offer a superior Lawyers’ Professional Liability product to additional geographic locations. As a market leader focused on providing competitive and comprehensive insurance solutions to attorneys, we are pleased about the opportunity to bring an enhanced policy form and new rates to attorneys and law firms in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Our fundamental approach has always been based upon the ability to help lawyers and law firms mitigate risk and protect their billable hours. By partnering with CNA, we are committed to delivering this approach to Connecticut and Rhode Island lawyers.”

*Rates, limits and coverage may vary based upon state and area of practice. Coverage is contingent upon approval of an application.

About USI Affinity
For over 75 years, USI Affinity has developed, marketed, and administered programs to deliver unique advantages in insurance coverage, price and service. USI Affinity markets and administers insurance programs for over 440 organizations nationwide, representing more than 22 million association, union and alumni members. USI Affinity is a division of USI Insurance Services. For more information about USI Affinity, please visit www.usiaffinity.com.

About CNA
CNA is one of the largest U.S. commercial property and casualty insurance companies. With more than 120 years of experience, CNA provides a broad range of standard and specialized insurance products and services for businesses and professionals in the U.S., Canada and Europe. For more information, please visit CNA at www.cna.com.

USI’s Santiago Landazuri, employee benefits consultant, located in Portland, OR, will be presenting at the upcoming National Workers’ Compensation and Disability Conference in Las Vegas, NV, which runs from October 20-22. Landazuri’s presentation, “Communication Strategies to Maximize Health and Safety Performance Across a Growing Hispanic Workforce,” is particularly relevant in labor-type industries considering the overall shortage of labor, a growing Hispanic workforce, and the opportunity and challenges that come with both. Learn more and register for the conference.

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the acquisition of Gretna, Louisiana-based Daul Insurance. Founded in 1960, Daul Insurance is an independent risk management and employee benefits agency serving businesses and individuals in Louisiana. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Commenting on the new partnership, Daul Insurance President, Jerry Daul, stated: “For more than 60 years, our team’s mission at Daul Insurance has been to improve ourselves, our agency and our community in support of our valued clients. I am confident that our partnership with USI, one of the world’s leading insurance brokerage and consulting firms, will further enhance this mission and our ability to continue serving our clients with the best-in-class solutions and expertise they deserve.”

John Collado, USI’s regional CEO, added: “We are excited to welcome Jerry and the professionals from Daul Insurance to the USI family. Together, we look forward to advancing Daul Insurance’s longstanding reputation for delivering superior service and expertise to clients by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom-line financial impact.”

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

USI was recently named to Business Insurance’s 2021 list of Best Places to Work in Insurance for the second year in a row. Business Insurance’s annual survey and workplace recognition program is conducted in partnership with Best Companies Group and consists of a two-phased employer and anonymous employee survey focused on workplace policies, practices, demographics, and overall employee experience. This recognition is a direct reflection of the outstanding work done each day by our incredible employees. Read more.

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the acquisition of Insurance and Capital Management LLC (“ICM”), an independent insurance brokerage operation based in Mill Creek, Washington, near Seattle, specializing in insurance and risk management for offshore fishing maritime operations. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“We are extremely excited about this new partnership with USI,” stated Mike Amiss, principal, ICM. “Over many years, the ICM team has earned a strong reputation for delivering superior service and a deep understanding of the marine insurance marketplace, in particular offshore fishing operations. I am confident our partnership with USI will further enhance the value we bring to our clients.”

Nick Munday, principal, ICM, added: “Our clients will continue to benefit from our team delivering coordinated solutions and support on a local level combined with our unparalleled access to international insurance markets. As part of USI, they will also have access to USI’s market-leading resources, solutions and national expertise available through the USI ONE Advantage^®. This gives us access to a unique platform that delivers innovative risk management and employee benefit solutions.”

Christopher Prentice, USI’s regional CEO, stated: “We are thrilled to welcome the full ICM team of talented professionals to the USI family. Together, we look forward to expanding our combined marine industry expertise and remain committed to delivering an unmatched level of service for our current and future clients throughout the Pacific Northwest.”

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

USI’s National Personal Risk Practice Leader, James Kane, recently caught up with PropertyCasualty360 for a mid-season review of the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season, and how this year’s above-average season is impacting the insurance industry. In the article, Kane shares, “The wildfires out West have already put enormous pressure on capacity, pricing and coverage terms. The active hurricane season and Hurricane Ida will only increase the difficulties in the property insurance segment of our business. The solution to the insurance crisis requires government, the insurance industry and clients to join forces to improve the eroding results, [including] better risk management of home construction near coastlines and open land subject to wildfire; better building codes and enforcement, [and] increased focus on loss control at the client level.” Read the full article (free account registration required).

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the acquisition of Des Moines, Iowa-based Reynolds & Reynolds, Inc. Founded in 1976, Reynolds & Reynolds is an independent risk management and employee benefits agency serving businesses and individuals throughout Iowa and nationally. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Commenting on the new partnership, Reynolds & Reynolds President, Stanley J. Reynolds, stated: “Over the last 45 years, we’ve worked hard to deliver an unparalleled level of personalized service and innovative solutions for our valued clients. Through our partnership with USI, we look forward to continuing this longstanding tradition of delivering exceptional service to businesses and individuals throughout Iowa and beyond, backed by USI’s best-in-class solutions.”

Donald McG. Woods, USI’s regional CEO, stated: “We are thrilled to grow USI’s presence in Iowa by welcoming Stanley and the talented professionals from Reynolds & Reynolds to the USI family. Together, we remain committed to delivering an unmatched level of service and expertise for our current and future clients by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, a unique platform that delivers innovative risk management and employee benefit solutions with bottom-line financial impact.”

USI’s Chairman and CEO, Michael J. Sicard, added: “We are excited to partner with the exceptional professionals and clients of Reynolds & Reynolds, while introducing a local Iowa-based presence for USI. We look forward to leveraging our combined strengths to continue Reynolds & Reynolds’ longstanding focus on building long-term client relationships with now an even further expanded suite of innovative risk management and employee benefit solutions.”

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

USI’s National Real Estate Practice Leader, Brian Dove, was recently interviewed by Business Insurance on the impact extreme weather and climate-driven events are having on commercial property insurance policy wordings and tighter terms and conditions. On mitigating the impact of these coming changes, Dove shared: “Businesses can take steps at individual locations to mitigate their exposures to perils. It doesn’t guarantee they won’t be impacted by the event, but it definitely helps to mitigate the impact.” Read the full article.

In a recent interview with Leader’s Edge Magazine, Anne Burkett, USI’s national practice leader for workforce solutions, and Nicole Albicocco, account executive with Emerson Reid, discussed the shifting views on professional employer organizations (PEOs) among the insurance brokerage community, and how they are increasingly being looked to as a strategic partner. In the article, Burkett shares, “There is a little more recognition of PEOs’ being not as much the enemy as they could be a strategic partner. If we have clients that are shrinking with tight budgets and they are considering other options from an HR perspective, that certainly could be a way for us to maintain a client even if we are outsourcing that to the PEO.” Albicocco adds, “For a growing company that is multi-site and multi-state with one person in HR, it’s very hard to stay compliant with all the regulations that are coming out every day. Setting up taxes and payroll for people in different states is a monumental task, and PEOs are really good for things like that.” Read the full article.

USI’s National Executive and Professional Risk Solutions Practice Leader, Andrew Doherty, recently sat down with Business Insurance to review the latest trends in the D&O insurance market, where rates have been rising through July 1. Many experts believe those rates may be flat by this same time in 2022, causing Andrew to observe, “What was the sleepiest kind of coverage in the management liability space has now become one clients need to be forewarned about.” Read more.

USI’s National Practice Division Manager for Casualty and Alternative Risk, Doug O’Brien, recently discussed mid-year commercial insurance rates for general liability and excess umbrella insurance lines with Business Insurance. Read more.

USI’s National Real Estate Practice Leader, Brian Dove, recently discussed the challenges faced by commercial property insurance buyers at mid-year renewals with Business Insurance. Referencing the impact COVID has had on the market and the material shortages and supply chain issues, Brian shared: “What would have taken 12 months at a reasonable cost to rebuild now can take 16 months, and it can be 20%, 30%, 40% more.” Read more.

USI’s National Construction Practice Leader, Danette Beck, was recently interviewed by Insurance Journal on the construction insurance market and the challenges and opportunities construction contractors are facing. “We kept saying that the market needed to get hard because it was so competitive, and at some point in time, there was going to be a tipping point. The pandemic certainly was that tipping point,” Beck shared. “The good news for contractors is that insurance capacity remains available unlike in other hard market times. During the last true hard market there was a capacity issue; there were contractors out there that could not find insurance. That is not the case in today’s hard market. It’s still competitive, and there are alternatives like private equity and other alternative types of markets coming into the marketplace.” Read the full article.

USI’s newly released Mid-Year Commercial P&C Insurance Market Outlook Report was recently featured in PropertyCasualty360. Recent catastrophic events, the pandemic, and other market pressures continue to produce rate increases, capacity reductions, and tighter underwriter scrutiny. Despite these negative pressures, USI’s mid-year report outlines the steps organizations can take to significantly improve their risk profiles and manage costs. The report also outlines the current market conditions and offers suggestions and solutions to help organizations reduce potential exposures. Request a copy of the full report and view PropertyCasualty360’s coverage online (free online registration required).

USI Consulting Group was recently recognized as one of the 10 largest Defined Benefit administration service providers in PLANSPONSOR’s 2021 Defined Benefit Administration Survey, as measured by both participants and numbers of plans fully outsourced. Read the latest issue of PLANSPONSOR to learn more.

USI’s Executive & Professional Risk Solutions (EPS) National Practice Advisor, Paul King, was recently interviewed by Business Insurance on the evolving risk management considerations associated with the sale of digital artwork represented by non-fungible tokens (NFTs). In the article, King comments on the risk management concerns for those involved in the sale of NFTs, sharing: “The first place you’re going to look, but not the only place, is your errors and omissions insurance — is there anything from a coverage exclusion standpoint that would preclude coverage?” Read the full article.  

USI’s National Construction Practice Leader, Danette Beck, was recently interviewed by Business Insurance on the challenges utility contractors working in wildfire-prone areas face when it comes to obtaining liability insurance coverage and why maintaining strong risk management protocols is critical to their success. “Insurers that are willing to provide liability coverage to contractors for wildfire risks want to see strong risk management protocols in place,” said Beck. “What are your vegetation management protocols? What is the protocol if it is a high wind day with dry air temperatures? What kind of protocols do you put in place in order to ensure the likelihood that a fire won’t be created by the work that you’re doing?” Read the full article.  

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement plan consulting, today announced the completion of its acquisition of the insurance business offered through Northwest Insurance Services from Northwest Bank, a subsidiary of Northwest Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: NWBI).  

Northwest Insurance Services is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northwest Bank, offering property and casualty, life, disability and long-term care insurance, as well as group health, life and disability employee benefits.

Northwest Bank’s President and CEO, Ron Seiffert stated: “In searching for the right partner for our insurance business, we had two key requirements – positioning our Insurance Services group with a proven industry leader in property and casualty insurance, employee benefits, personal risk and retirement consulting, and partnering with an established firm that would continue to value the contributions of all Northwest Insurance Services employees. USI met both requirements, and I am confident their national capabilities, delivered through longstanding, passionate and committed local service teams, will continue to deliver the superior level of service and solutions our clients have come to expect.”

USI’s Chairman and CEO, Michael J. Sicard added: “We are thrilled to welcome the clients and talented professionals from Northwest Insurance Services to USI. Partnering together, we look forward to delivering a uniquely exceptional and impactful experience for our current and future clients through the USI ONE Advantage^®.”

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

About Northwest Bancshares, Inc.
Northwest Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company of Northwest Bank, which is headquartered in Warren, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1896, Northwest Bank is a full-service financial institution offering a complete line of business and personal banking products, as well as employee benefits and wealth management services. As of March 31, 2021, Northwest operated 162 full-service community banking offices and eight free standing drive-through facilities in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio and Indiana. Northwest Bancshares, Inc.’s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NWBI”). Additional information regarding Northwest Bancshares, Inc. and Northwest Bank can be accessed on-line at www.northwest.com.

For the third year in a row, USI has been named as a ‘Best of the Best’ employer for multicultural women in the insurance industry by Professional WOMAN’s Magazine (PWM). PWM’s annual ‘Best of the Best’ program is designed to recognize leading U.S. organizations actively engaged in the advancement of multicultural women in all aspects of business and employment to ensure equal opportunity. USI’s SVP & Chief Human Resources Officer, Kim Van Orman, shared: “We are honored to once again be the only insurance brokerage and consulting firm recognized as one of PWM’s ‘Best of the Best’ organizations for multicultural women in insurance. Women comprise over 60 percent of USI’s more than 8,000 team members, representing diverse backgrounds, career paths, and unique life experiences. Through continued investments in USI’s innovative employee program offerings, we are committed to advancing a diverse and inclusive culture where all women feel a strong sense of belonging and support.” Read more.

USI’s Frank Abbatiello recently caught up with PropertyCasualty360 to discuss the latest risks and opportunities facing construction business owners. In the article, Abbatiello explores the many challenges facing the construction industry due to COVID-19 and how agents can respond to their clients in need. Abbatiello states, “As business owners take on contracts, they need to make sure the proper parties are taking on responsibility for any claims or mistakes that could arise. Proper risk transfer can also help clients save money on insurance premiums.” Read the full article. 

USI’s Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, Kim Van Orman, was recently recognized as one of the National Diversity Council’s Top 50 HR Professionals for 2021. This annual award program honors HR professionals from diverse organizations representing various industries across the United States. Honorees include HR professionals committed to driving change in the areas of diversity and inclusion and advancing the HR field in meaningful and influential ways within their respective organizations and society-at-large. Commenting on the recognition, Van Orman shared: “It is an honor to receive this recognition from the National Diversity Council. I am extremely fortunate to work alongside a diverse group of more than 8,000 USI professionals who are passionate about advancing our I’m With U diversity and inclusion program efforts in support of a culture where everyone feels safe, included, engaged and heard.” Awardees will be formally recognized at the upcoming 17th Annual National Diversity and Leadership Conference on April 21-22 and April 28-29. Learn more.

USI’s National Executive & Professional Risk Solutions Practice Advisor, Nadia Hoyte, will take part in Advisen’s upcoming Cyber Risk Trends Webinar on Wednesday, April 14, at 11 a.m. (EDT). The webinar will include a special focus on small and mid-sized enterprises, industry experts will weigh-in on the latest cyber risk developments, analyze cyber loss events and provide updates on the current cyber insurance market. While large organizations might make the headlines more often, smaller businesses face the same types of cyber risks, especially when it comes to ransomware. The stark difference, smaller businesses may not have the resources to improve their cybersecurity postures or bounce back quickly after an event. Panel experts will outline how organizations can work with their insurance partners to get a handle on today’s evolving cyber risk landscape and provide actionable insight into effective pre-breach mitigation. Register for this complimentary webinar.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day dedicated to celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s IWD theme is #ChooseToChallenge, which focuses on how individuals can choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality while celebrating women’s achievements. In celebration of this year’s theme, USI developed a special video showcasing the unique perspectives of our team members. Additionally, throughout March, USI’s I’m With U diversity, equity and inclusion program will focus on uncovering the inequalities women face in the workplace and their communities and how our team members can take positive action to help advance a more inclusive, gender-equal world.

USI was recently recognized as a winner in Treasury & Risk’s 2020 Alexander Hamilton Awards. For more than two decades, the Alexander Hamilton Awards from Treasury & Risk have recognized companies taking big leaps forward in treasury, finance and risk management through process innovations and technology implementations. USI was one of three winning organizations recognized in the Technology Excellence category for its innovative use of technology to streamline treasury processes and create dramatic efficiency improvements. Commenting on the recognition, USI’s Director of Treasury, Nancy Colwell, shared, “Even though we’re small, our treasury group is always looking for ways to enhance our processes so that we become a better partner to the business. That’s the natural progression of striving to be a world-class treasury department.” Read the full article (Free account registration required).

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the acquisition of Spokane, Washington-based Inland Insurance, Inc. (“Inland”). Founded in 2006, Inland Insurance is an independent risk management and employee benefits agency serving businesses and individuals throughout eastern Washington. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Jim Dinneen, owner and president, Inland Insurance, stated: “USI is an established leader in the risk management, insurance brokerage and consulting market, known for their best-in-class solutions including proprietary analytics, local and national resources, and team-based planning. This partnership will further strengthen our firm’s longstanding reputation for delivering superior solutions, expertise and service to our valued clients in Spokane and throughout eastern Washington.”

Chris Prentice, USI regional CEO, added: “We look forward to welcoming Jim and the talented professionals from Inland Insurance to the USI family. Together, we are committed to delivering an unmatched level of service and expertise for our current and future clients by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage®.”

About USI
USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. Headquartered in Valhalla, New York, USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage^®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

USI’s General Counsel & Secretary, Ernest Newborn, was recently recognized by the National Diversity Council as one of their Top 100 Most Influential African American Leaders in Business for 2021. The annual list recognizes professionals across multiple industries who are not only leading with excellence but are changing the landscape of their industries by making them more inclusive and diverse for future generations. Commenting on the recognition, Newborn shared: “It is an honor to be recognized by the National Diversity Council and included among this impressive group of executives who are influencing and impacting the corporate community. I also have a deep sense of pride in USI for its commitment to building and nurturing a culture where inclusiveness is a reflex, not merely an initiative, and guides how we build our teams and cultivate our leaders.”

USI’s Chairman and CEO, Mike Sicard, recently sat down with Insurance Business America Magazine for their January ‘Industry Icon’ feature. In the article, Mike discusses his career path, from landing his first job in insurance to joining USI. He also explains the USI ONE Advantage^® value proposition and what led to its development, along with USI’s continued focus on innovation --- for our clients, team members and communities. “Just like we’ll never stop innovating for our clients, we’ll never stop striving to create a truly special place for our people,” shared Sicard. “We invest in people, innovation and talent, not with a short-term mindset, but to be leading for our clients and people 10, 15, 20 years from now.” Read the full article online or in the January issue of Insurance Business America Magazine.

USI’s Chief Sales Officer, Sandra Usleman, was recently named to The Modern Sale’s list of the Top 100 Global Sales Leaders for 2021! Modern Sale is dedicated to news and views about the sales industry and emerging technology. The top100 professionals were nominated and vetted against thousands of applicants from various industries, known for their commitment to team and leadership development and their ability to adapt and embrace the new technologies. They have also been recognized for their proven ability to navigate through turbulent times and rise to the challenge of an unexpected global crisis with grace, collaboration, and commitment to their teams. Commenting on the recognition, Usleman shared: “I am humbled to be recognized among this amazing group of leaders, but the real recognition goes to the entire USI team of committed and talented technical resources, sales professionals, leaders, client advocates, and most of all, our incredible clients.” Read more. 

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the acquisition of Colorado Springs, Colorado-based CB Insurance, LLC. CB Insurance and its predecessors have proudly served the needs of the Colorado community for over 100 years and is currently one of the largest insurance brokerage firms in the state, specializing in commercial and personal risk insurance programs. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Commenting on the announcement, Steve Schneider, president, CB Insurance, stated: “From our founding, CB Insurance has maintained a long-standing reputation for delivering innovative risk management solutions and service to businesses and individuals throughout Colorado. This partnership marks an exciting time for our firm as we join forces with USI and advance our legacy for delivering client-focused solutions built on a shared sense of commitment, innovation and client advocacy.”

Donald Woods, USI’s regional CEO, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Steve and the talented professionals from CB Insurance to the USI family. Partnering as one, we look forward to strengthening USI’s commercial and personal risk expertise in service to our current and future clients throughout Colorado and beyond.”

About USI

USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. Headquartered in Valhalla, New York, USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

USI’s National Real Estate Practice Leader, Brian Dove, was recently interviewed by Business Insurance on the continued rise in commercial property insurance rates and what policyholders can expect in 2021. “There was a ‘wide variance’ in renewal outcomes for January 1,” stated Dove. “Accounts exposed to natural catastrophes, such as hurricane, hail, flood or wildfire, and especially those that experienced losses in those areas are bearing the brunt of the increases in the marketplace.” Read the full article.

USI Insurance Services (“USI”), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the acquisition of Creative Planning Benefits, LLC, the employee benefits division of Overland Park, Kansas-based Creative Planning, Inc. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Commenting on the announcement, Bob Nonemaker, managing partner for Creative Planning Benefits, stated: “This new partnership with USI will further strengthen our ability to help employers optimize their benefit plans through comprehensive cost containment, best-in-class pricing, regulatory compliance and superior account service. Our valued clients will continue to work with the talented team of local employee benefit professionals they’ve come to know and trust, in addition to gaining access to USI’s expanded suite of industry-leading tools, solutions and expertise.”

Donald Woods, USI regional CEO, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Bob and the talented professionals from Creative Planning Benefits to the USI family. Together, we look forward to offering an unmatched level of service and expertise for our current and future clients throughout Kansas by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage®, a proprietary platform delivering innovative employee benefit and risk management solutions with bottom-line financial impact for clients.”

About USI

USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. Headquartered in Valhalla, New York, USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients’ local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage®, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.