CHAIR OF THE BOARD’S MESSAGE

SIGNING OFF, MY FINAL CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE

No matter your political persuasion, I think we can all agree that, financially, these are unprecedented times. Following government-mandated shutdowns, mass layoffs, stimulus money infusions, and global supply chain disruptions, the economy is in a strange place. And while normalcy looks to be returning, there are “new normals” with uncertainty prevailing as an undercurrent to almost all decisions we make.

Meanwhile, many in the independent agent community are waiting to see if – and how – these topsy-turvy days will impact agency valuations. The feature article on page 13 delves into the trends and forecasts what may be ahead for agency deals. Yet through it all, the independent agency business model remains a solid investment. Perhaps that’s never been clearer than in economically uncertain times. No matter where you are in the industry – preparing to perpetuate, eyeing ownership, or simply supporting an agency’s bottom line – may you have successful months ahead.

On a personal note: August will complete my final month as IA&B Service Group Chairman, as well as a 10-year run as part of the IA&B Board. The people I have served with are outstanding! I have learned much from each of them. Some are principals of large, highly sophisticated agencies; while others are owners of small and midsize agencies. Regardless, they deal with HR, technology systems, comparative raters, specialized markets, regulatory compliance, multi-faceted product offerings, carrier relations, risk management, etc. on varying scales. To all of them, I say “thank you” for letting me see what true professionalism looks like.

Four years ago, I was surprised and humbled when several of my IA&B Board peers supported me for leadership in IA&B’s Service Group. Accepting their nominations put me in a position to work with your association’s CEO, senior staff, and support staff who work hard to provide us the resources needed to operate and manage our agencies. I cannot state more emphatically that you should utilize what is available to you to your advantage. I also charge you with supporting, with your dollars, the advocacy efforts of IA&B and your lobbyists in their government relations efforts. Protect your turf!

With that, I hope we cross paths in the future.

Respectfully,

Craig S. Mader