Viewpoints

“I’m a firm believer that you should do what you love, and while I love insurance, I also love eating, experiencing new restaurants and talking to restaurant owners,” says independent agent Jimi Honochick.

To secure the industry’s future, we must reimagine talent acquisition, development and retention strategies to position insurance as a hub of innovation, data intelligence, and societal impact.

Rob Bourne is the senior vice president and general manager of EZLynx, bringing strategic insight and proven expertise in scaling innovative technology solutions.

Before Susan Erickson took the helm of her insurance agency, she was busy weathering the waves of the commercial fishing industry.

“I see telematics and cameras—both driver-facing and outward-facing—playing a much larger role in the future,” says independent agent Blake West. “Some insurance carriers are already using telematics in underwriting, while others incorporate it into ongoing risk management.”

Emily McGinn is general manager of the MGA and wholesale business unit at Vertafore, overseeing product development, professional services and customer service.

“With the growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers across the U.S., I see the energy sector poised for major growth,” says independent agent Evan Swindall. “The increased need for power generation and infrastructure to support this growth will drive significant opportunities in energy-related industries.”

Jamie Behymer, director of diversity, inclusion and young agents at the Big “I,” leads initiatives that empower emerging leaders and help independent insurance agencies become more inclusive.

“For years, community associations were stuck in one of the hardest insurance markets we’ve ever seen,” says independent agent Trey Griffy. “Premiums climbed, carriers pulled out and deductibles got pushed higher across the board.”

Lorraine Jeckells is co-founder and CEO of Free Brands (FREE), a global marketing agency specializing in the insurance sector.