CHAIR OF THE BOARD’S MESSAGE

INSIGHT INTO MEMBERSHIP

Welcome to April! While this month traditionally marks a turning point in the weather and activities (golf, anyone?), tax filings and the associated paid (or not), it also marks annual IA&B membership renewal for most agencies.

I’d like to take a moment here to touch on association membership – something that has evolved over the years. What once felt obligatory (and often socially driven) is now a business decision: What is the value of belonging?

As a fellow agency owner, I respect that thought process. For many reasons, this isn’t the same industry as it was a generation ago, and small-business owners must be prudent.

On behalf of the IA&B Board of Directors – which is a group of our peers donating their time and talents – I can assure you that your membership is as valuable as ever. IA&B continues to deliver the legal and compliance insights, political and regulatory advocacy, competitive professional liability insurance, and awardwinning education you’ve come to expect. At the same time, the organization is evolving to meet the needs of today’s independent agencies, through cybersecurity vulnerability assessments (see page 15), Independent Market Solutions market access, and discounted Work At Home Vintage Experts contract staffing.

For those of you who already renewed, thank you. I encourage others to follow suit and re-up for the 2021-2022 membership year. The minimal expense of your dues is dwarfed by the value added by these services! I emphasize, again, that these resources can cut out expenses you may incur by hiring or contracting with compliance and/or legal personnel or services. IA&B is your partner in business if you engage them. That would be prudent and smart!

Respectfully,

Craig S. Mader, Chair of the Board