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RT SPECIALTY PROMOTES FROM WITHIN

February 19, 2016, CHICAGO, IL - The Board of Directors of Ryan Specialty Group at their recent quarterly meeting have approved the following executive leadership changes at RT Specialty:

Commenting on these promotions, Patrick G. Ryan, Chairman and CEO of Ryan Specialty Group (RSG) says, "Each of these individuals has proven their leadership over the past five years. RT Specialty was formed in 2010 and in this short time, under the direction of these individuals, RT Specialty has become one of the largest wholesale brokers in the nation. Tim Turner has proven time and again his tremendous leadership, motivational and building skills. Ed McCormack, who has been with RT Specialty since the beginning, continues to be a strong strategic leader. Michael VanAcker has been with RSG and RT since 2011. He is an outstanding talent and will continue to bring excellence to RT Specialty."

Prior to these promotions, Tim Turner had been CEO and President, Ed McCormack had been Chief Operating Officer, and Michael VanAcker had been the company's Controller.

About RT Specialty
R-T Specialty, LLC (RT), a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, provides wholesale brokerage and other services to agents and brokers. RT is a Delaware limited liability company based in Illinois. In California: R-T Specialty Insurance Services, LLC License #0G97516.

About Ryan Specialty Group
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes a wholesale brokerage, highly-specialized underwriting companies and specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com

DUAL is pleased to announce the acquisition of Chelsea Risk Management, Inc.

DUAL is pleased to announce the acquisition of Chelsea Risk Management, Inc., a marine insurance agency based in San Francisco which specializes in coverage for ports, terminals and logistics operators.

"We are excited to enter the Marine arena in North America and this product offering will expand DUAL's burgeoning programs. Andrew Morgan and Julian Strokes will rely on their years of experience in the Marine insurance Industry and with them, we will look to build out from their core product lines into other areas of the Marine Industry," Justin Tweedie, CEO, DUAL Commercial.

The president of CRM, Andrew Morgan, said "We are delighted to be joining the DUAL team and believe that becoming part of the world's largest international insurance underwriting agency will give us the ideal platform to expand our offering to the global marine market." About DUAL Commercial, LLC.

DUAL Commercial LLC is a leading Specialty Program Administrator offering property & casualty products through several specialized subsidiary companies. DUAL Commercial currently has 11 underwriting offices throughout North America that underwrite and manage unique insurance programs utilizing advanced technology and simplified distribution methods. DUAL Commercial is a part of the DUAL Group, which is the world's largest international underwriting agency and Lloyd's largest international coverholder with offices in 17 countries.

Ryan Specialty Group completes acquisition of Warranty & Indemnity experts Hunter George & Partners Ltd

February 1, 2016, CHICAGO, IL- Ryan Specialty Group, the global specialty insurance services business based in Chicago, and Hunter George & Partners Ltd, the specialist MGA focused on insurance solutions for mergers and acquisitions, are pleased to announce that the acquisition of Hunter George & Partners Ltd, was completed on January 31, 2016, following regulatory approval.

This transaction was previously announced on November 16, 2015.

Hunter George founders Ian Theato and Tim Martin will continue leading the business, which features highly specialized underwriting capability for warranty and indemnity, commercial tax liability and contingent risk insurance. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes a wholesale brokerage, highly-specialized underwriting companies and specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com

For more information please contact: Ben Welsh, Certus Communications Ltd: 07568 382 040

St. John’s University’s School of Risk Management to partner with Target University and the Target Markets Program Administrators Association

Wilmington, DE (January 19, 2016)–The Target Markets Program Administrators Association has announced a collaboration between its Target University and the Center for Professional Education (CPE), an affiliate of St. John’s School of Risk Management (SRM). CPE will provide access to Target University’s suite of 12 online, self-study courses on Program Administration and likewise, St. John’s will grant Target Markets’ members access to CPE courses.

Program Administrators are, in effect, independent contractors for underwriting that provide insurance for specific industries or otherwise unique classes of property and casualty insurance on behalf of insurance companies. Program Administrators write business using a range of distribution and geographical approaches but more often than not produce business through independent insurance agents on a national basis.

Target Markets was formed in 2001 by a handful of Program Administrators in response to the growth of this specialized business model in the P&C industry. Target Markets’ membership now represents close to 300 Program Administrators and 63 Program Insurance Companies.

Target Markets will provide ongoing support to Saint John’s SRM’s Center for Public Education by disseminating information about the school’s online curriculum and by providing access to these courses, at a discounted rate, to Target Markets’ members via a web link on The Target University site. Saint John’s CPE, in turn, will offer a link to Target University courses for individuals not currently members of Target Markets. Successful completion of the University coursework, appropriate industry experience, and membership in Target Markets, can lead to the Certified Program Leader (CPL) designation.

“We are very excited about partnering with the School of Risk Management”, said Heidi Strommen, Target Markets’ President. “St. John’s SRM is a prestigious institution with a rich history of insurance education dating back to 1901. We know that our members will want to take advantage of their CPE’s outstanding course offerings.”

Courses should be available on the Target University and the Saint John’s SRM websites by February 1st.

The Target Markets Program Administrators Association is an organization dedicated to meeting the unique challenges of insurance program administration. The Association’s mission is to help program administrators conduct their business more efficiently, with greater proficiency and profitability. The organization provides its membership with an array of business and educational services including access to program carrier decision makers, Best Practice information and recognition, Target University, program marketing, Target Programs (online portal), Industry studies and two annual member meetings.

The Target Markets’ 2016 Mid-Year Meeting is scheduled for April 18-20 in Washington, DC with Keynote Speaker Dr. Ben S. Bernanke.

Program administrators/MGAs interested in learning more about Target Markets or Target University can visit the Association's website at www.targetmarkets.com or contact Ray Scotto, Executive Director, at (877) 347-5700 or ray.scotto@targetmkts.com.

LANDY INSURANCE AGENCY NAMES MARK DIPENTINO DIRECTOR OF SALES

Herbert H Landy Insurance Agency, Inc. Adds Staff to Meet Increasing Market Growth

Needham, MA - Industry leader Herbert H Landy Insurance Agency, Inc. [“Landy”] established in 1949, has specialized in providing niche liability insurance for professionals. Commonly known as errors and omissions insurance, Landy has been meeting the insurance needs of professionals nationwide for over six decades. As Landy’s market share continues to grow and with increasing opportunity, Landy announces that it has named Mark DiPentino as Director of Sales.

With over thirteen years of providing errors and omissions insurance to real estate brokers, Mark has a wellrounded resume of qualifications that include his facilitating CE classes and risk management workshops for real estate professionals, selling multiple lines of insurance, selling home warranty protection plans and worked as a territory and project manager. He has participated on professional liability insurance Q&A panels at the Greater Las Vegas Association of REALTORs and continues to be actively engaged in community outreach programs.

“Having a background in real estate appraising and mortgage combined with his successful work experience, Mark DiPentino has every asset that we were looking for to lead and further our sales efforts.” Said, John Torvi, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at the Landy Insurance Agency. Betsy Magnuson, president of Landy, adds “We were looking for a quality individual that really understands the specific needs of our clients and will be able to continue with the Landy tradition of service excellence. Mark is a natural fit to our team and we are excited to work with him.”

Mark DiPentino states, “Sales and sales management is really about communicating effectively and making good business decisions to meet the needs of your client; it’s about listening and providing solutions.” DiPentino added, “I look forward to making a difference in protecting the most important investment a business owner has and equally excited in expanding my work experience to include providing insurance solutions for appraisers, accountants, title agencies, mortgage companies and other professionals.”

Mark DiPentino has a proven track record of sales and sales management for over twenty years and has been a decorated top sales achiever. Mark can be reached by phone at 781.292.5432 at www.landy.com/sales or by e-mail at mark@landy.com.

Herbert H Landy Insurance Agency, Inc. is an industry leading professional liability insurance provider. Landy is proud of its association with an expanding nationwide network of independent insurance agents. Landy delivers significant advantages in administration, agency-network management, and product distribution while working in tandem with the insurance industry’s most respected carriers.

Websites for Executive Education Program

The Institutes Executive Education Program at The University of Virginia Darden School Foundation is from March 20, 2016 through March 25, 2016 and provides strategic leadership training tailored to the risk management and property-casualty insurance industry. This program's advanced, five-day interactive learning structure, you will have the opportunity to gain unique insights from your fellow participants’ expertise and experience, as well as build valuable professional relationships.

For more information please visit the website at:

https://www.theinstitutes.org/guide/institutes-executive-education-university-virginia-darden-school-business

You can also view the Executive Education brochure at:

https://www.theinstitutes.org/sites/www.aicpcu.org/files/execed_br2020_1115web.pdf

RT SPECIALTY TO ACQUIRE COUNTRYWIDE BROKERAGE

January 11, 2016, CHICAGO, IL - R-T Specialty, LLC (RT Specialty), the wholesale brokerage unit of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, has announced it has acquired the assets of Countrywide Brokerage, a wholesale insurance brokerage operation based in Edmonds, WA.

Established in 1995, Countrywide Brokerage has focused on providing their agency partners with insurance solutions in admitted and non-admitted commercial and personal lines markets for hard-to-place risks, specialty products and high net worth homeowners in the western United States.

RT Specialty President and CEO, Timothy W. Turner says, "Sue has built a superior broker team and binding authority platform that will complement our existing Seattle office and in the Northwest. We are delighted to have Sue and her professional team join us at RT Specialty."

Susan Brennan, President of Countrywide Brokerage, remarks, "The entire Countrywide Brokerage team is excited and honored to join with RT Specialty to represent our agents here in the Northwest. RT Specialty shares our business approach with a focus on providing superior customer service while maintaining strong relationships with the companies we represent. Partnering with independently owned RT Specialty will further enhance our ability to provide creative solutions to meet customer needs."

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

For more information on this release, please contact Tara Shertenlieb: 816-412-7564, Tara.Shertenlieb@rtspecialty.com.

RT Specialty
R-T Specialty, LLC (RT), a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, provides wholesale brokerage and other services to agents and brokers. RT is a Delaware limited liability company based in Illinois. In California: R-T Specialty Insurance Services, LLC License #0G97516. ©2016 Ryan Specialty Group, LLC.

Worldwide Facilities, LLC Opens New South Bay- LA Office; Appoints Brian Vassallo as Senior Vice President

Los Angeles, CA-Worldwide Facilities, a national wholesale insurance brokerage and managing general agent, announces the opening of a new location in the south bay area of Los Angeles, California. Brian Vassallo will serve as Senior Vice President.

In 2005, Vassallo began his career in insurance, building specialized expertise in national infrastructure and commercial and residential construction. He quickly achieved recognition as an authority in these areas, establishing strong relationships with leading underwriting, risk management, law, and third-party vendor companies throughout the country. He later expanded his industry knowledge to include placing challenging risks in the upstream, downstream, and renewable energy markets.

In his new leadership role, Vassallo plans to focus on providing outstanding service to Worldwide Facilities clients and strengthening market relationships-while developing exclusive products and proprietary coverage to better serve their insureds.

"We expect Brian will be an excellent resource for our clients and their insureds in the south bay area of Los Angeles," says Davis Moore, CEO of Worldwide Facilities. "He offers a wealth of experience placing some of the most difficult and complex risks in the industry."

About Worldwide Facilities, LLC.
Worldwide Facilities is a national wholesale insurance broker and managing general agent that has been in business since 1970. Our seasoned brokers and underwriters are industry leaders in providing expertise in a wide range of specialty lines, and offer extensive contacts with carriers domestically and overseas.

For more information, please contact Brian Vassallo at (310) 872-7743 or bv@wwfi.com.

Worldwide Facilities, LLC Expands into Dallas; Appoints Cade Felker and Hayden Haucke as Senior Vice Presidents

Dallas, TX-National wholesale insurance brokerage Worldwide Facilities, LLC, is pleased to announce the opening of its new office in Dallas, Texas. The new office will be headed by Senior Vice Presidents Hayden Haucke and Cade Felker.

Cade Felker began his career in insurance in 2004 as a workers' compensation claims adjuster in the Dallas area. He later gained six years of experience as an underwriter in commercial and industrial construction.

Felker is a specialist in the energy industry, with extensive expertise in managing challenging risk in that sector. He looks forward to providing comprehensive knowledge of energy-related risk to Worldwide Facilities' customers, and to developing new programs and products to serve energy clients.

Hayden Haucke's specialties include placing property and inland marine policies for companies in the energy, trucking, real estate, industrial, and manufacturing sectors. He has developed a number of exclusive inland marine programs for energy and contracting companies and continues to develop new products to address needs of the market.

Haucke plans to leverage extensive experience providing top-tier service to clients and solving the challenges of complex, hard-to-place accounts to the benefit of Worldwide Facilities clients and partners.

"We believe Cade and Hayden are the perfect team to lead our expansion in Dallas," says Davis Moore, CEO of Worldwide Facilities. "Their combination of broad industry knowledge and specialized expertise in the energy sector makes them both uniquely qualified to serve the needs of this market."

About Worldwide Facilities, LLC.
Worldwide Facilities is a national wholesale insurance broker and managing general agent that has been in business since 1970. Our seasoned brokers and underwriters are industry leaders in providing expertise in a wide range of specialty lines, and offer extensive contacts with carriers domestically and overseas.

For more information, please contact Cade Felker at (972) 978-5992 or cfelker@wwfi.com or Hayden Haucke at (214) 536-0882 or hhaucke@wwfi.com.

Dan Freyer to Serve as Senior Vice President of Worldwide Facilities, LLC's Chicago Office

Chicago, IL-Worldwide Facilities LLC, a leading nationwide wholesale insurance brokerage and managing general agent, is pleased to announce its decision to hire Dan Freyer as Senior Vice President of its Chicago office.

Freyer has over 13 years of experience in the industry, specializing in placing challenging casualty risks. His expertise is built on a broad knowledge base spanning primary and excess liability, including construction, energy, and manufacturing.

In this new position, Freyer looks forward to maintaining strong partnerships with clients, co-brokers, and carriers. He brings a client-centered focus to the position, with extensive experience building long-term relationships in the insurance industry.

"Dan offers a very broad geographic reach," says Davis Moore, CEO of Worldwide Facilities. "Our company is known for its extensive industry networks and relationships, and Dan brings contacts and partnerships from every region of the country. We expect he will be a great resource for our staff and clients in Chicago."

About Worldwide Facilities, LLC.
Worldwide Facilities is a national wholesale insurance broker and managing general agent that has been in business since 1970. Our seasoned brokers and underwriters are industry leaders in providing expertise in a wide range of specialty lines, and offer extensive contacts with carriers domestically and overseas.

For more information, please contact Dan Freyer at (708) 638-1492 or dfreyer@wwfi.com.

RDG signs agreement to acquire Midas Underwriting

Ryan Direct Group (RDG), the leading insurance services business and part of Chicago-based Ryan Specialty Group (RSG), has entered into agreement to acquire Northern Ireland-based MGA Midas Underwriting (Midas), subject to regulatory approval. The consideration is undisclosed.

Derek Coles, RDG CEO, said the acquisition will give RDG extra capability in niche and specialist lines in home, motor and commercial: "Midas is a specialist business, like RDG, and the Midas book complements our existing portfolio in SME, property owners and landlords, and additionally supports our medium term aim of creating a balanced commercial and personal lines book."

He added: "It marks RDG's first significant foray into the niche and specialist motor market, building on our existing TPA arrangement with the Only Young Drivers brand in the UK. We look forward to working with Midas' existing capacity providers, including Axa, Ageas and KGM, to deliver accelerated growth and profitability across all business lines."

He said that RDG's acquisition of Midas will also give RDG access to enhanced claims capability, especially in motor, which "adds considerably to the services the Group can offer our insurance and broking clients."

Alan Hunter, managing director of Midas, said: "This acquisition by RDG is a huge vote of confidence in our business and our people. It strengthens our position as a leading player in the Northern Ireland and Irish market, and will give us added financial strength to accelerate growth under the RSG brand."

Mr Hunter said Midas' business includes SME, commercial vehicle, personal home and motor, non-standard home and car, property owners and ancillaries. Midas will write in excess of £30 million GWP into the market in its current financial year covering the mainland UK, Northern Ireland and Southern Irish markets.

Mr Coles said that Paul Donaldson, currently non-executive director of RDG, will chair the acquired business, which is headquartered in Belfast, and has an additional office in Chelmsford, Essex. The acquisition is expected to complete during the first quarter of 2016.

About Ryan Direct Group
Ryan Direct Group (RDG) is part of Ryan Specialty Group LLC. RDG is a long-established, successful Insurance Solutions Provider that's highly regarded by the insurers, brokers, finance companies and affinity partners with whom we work. We are involved in all aspects of insurance activities and in every insurance sector from property and casualty to life and motor.

The group has 475 staff across sites in Doncaster, London, Manchester, Preston and Elland. For more information on RDG visit:

www.ryandirectgroup.co.uk.

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company that includes a wholesale brokerage, highly-specialised underwriting companies and specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com

For more information please contact Ben Welsh: Certus Ltd - 07568 382040

About Midas Underwriting
MIDAS Underwriting Ltd is an independently owned underwriting agency, specialising in the provision of insurance products to intermediaries. We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Founded on a wealth of experience from within the insurance industry, the management team has developed a corporate strategy focused on the provision of products exclusively to the insurance broking market. Our aim is to assist brokers in delivering the quality products their clients demand at competitive rates.

Ryan Specialty Group acquires Warranty & Indemnity experts Hunter George & Partners Ltd

November 16, 2015, CHICAGO, IL- Ryan Specialty Group (RSG), the global specialty insurance services business based in Chicago, has announced that it has reached agreement to acquire Hunter George & Partners Ltd, the London-based specialist MGA focused on insurance solutions for mergers and acquisitions.

Hunter George founders Ian Theato and Tim Martin will continue leading the business, which features highly specialized underwriting capability in the rapidly growing areas of warranty and indemnity, commercial tax liability and contingent risk insurance.

Patrick G. Ryan, Chairman and CEO of RSG commented: "Ian and Tim have built an outstanding platform in M&A insurance, a market segment of global importance to RSG. We are excited to add Hunter George to our growing MGA operation in London."

Tim Martin says: "We are delighted to be joining RSG where we will benefit from the extensive experience and global relationships of the leadership team."

Ian Theato added: "We believe this combination will enable us to scale our platform quickly to seize the exciting market opportunity in European M&A. We also view the entrepreneurial culture of RSG as a perfect fit for our team."

Peter McKenna, who leads RSG's MGA strategy in EMEA, added: "Hunter George is a great fit for our portfolio and will significantly broaden our range of high-demand specialty products. With Hunter George we gain exceptional underwriting talent, extensive contacts and an excellent reputation in the M&A segment, with particular emphasis on the EU markets. Operating as a coverholder in the London Market, Hunter George enables us to offer innovative solutions for our clients."

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes a wholesale brokerage, highly-specialised underwriting companies and specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com

For more information please contact: Ben Welsh, Certus Communications Ltd: 07568 382 040

Landy Insurance Agency Names Mark DiPentino Director of Sales

Herbert H Landy Insurance Agency, Inc. Adds Staff to Meet Increasing Market Growth.

Needham, MA, November 2, 2015: Industry leader Herbert H Landy Insurance Agency, Inc. ["Landy"] established in 1949, has specialized in providing niche liability insurance for professionals. Commonly known as errors and omissions insurance, Landy has been meeting the insurance needs of professionals nationwide for over six decades. As Landy's market share continues to grow and with increasing opportunity, Landy announces that it has named Mark DiPentino as Director of Sales.

With over thirteen years of providing errors and omissions insurance to real estate brokers, Mark has a wellrounded resume of qualifications that include his facilitating CE classes and risk management workshops for real estate professionals, selling multiple lines of insurance, selling home warranty protection plans and worked as a territory and project manager. He has participated on professional liability insurance Q&A panels at the Greater Las Vegas Association of REALTORs and continues to be actively engaged in community outreach programs.

"Having a background in real estate appraising and mortgage combined with his successful work experience, Mark DiPentino has every asset that we were looking for to lead and further our sales efforts." Said, John Torvi, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at the Landy Insurance Agency. Betsy Magnuson, President of Landy, adds "We were looking for a quality individual that really understands the specific needs of our clients and will be able to continue with the Landy tradition of service excellence. Mark is a natural fit to our team and we are excited to work with him."

Mark DiPentino states, "Sales and sales management is really about communicating effectively and making good business decisions to meet the needs of your client; it's about listening and providing solutions." DiPentino added, "I look forward to making a difference in protecting the most important investment a business owner has and equally excited in expanding my work experience to include providing insurance solutions for appraisers, accountants, title agencies, mortgage companies and other professionals." Mark DiPentino has a proven track record of sales and sales management for over twenty years and has been a decorated top sales achiever.

Mark can be reached by phone at 781.292.5432 at www.landy.com/sales or by e-mail at mark@landy.com

Herbert H Landy Insurance Agency, Inc. is an industry leading professional liability insurance provider. Landy is proud of its association with an expanding nationwide network of independent insurance agents. Landy delivers significant advantages in administration, agency-network management, and product distribution while working in tandem with the insurance industry's most respected carriers.

Contact: John Tovi, Herbert H Landy Insurance Agency, Inc., 75 Second Ave., Ste. 410, Needham, MA 02494, (800) 336-5422 ext. 117, johnt@landy.com

PIANY to focus on NYSIF's 30-days' notice requirement during the 2016 legislative session

GLENMONT, N.Y.-During a recent survey, members of the Professional Insurance Agents of New York State Inc. told their association to focus on removing the requirement for policyholders to provide 30-days' notice to withdraw from the New York State Insurance Fund during the 2016 legislative session, which will begin in January. Each year, PIANY surveys its members to determine its legislative priorities for the year. According to the survey, professional, independent insurance agents also are concerned about New York's unique Labor Law/tort reform; the competitive disadvantages inherent in the operation of the NYSIF; and payment of commissions to licensed brokers on NYSIF policies.

NYSIF is the largest single carrier of workers' compensation insurance in the state (40 percent of the market). According to PIANY, a bill the association introduced in 2015 would provide a more even playing field between the NYSIF and the admitted marketplace for workers' compensation insurance, saving businesses money on their workers' compensation insurance, without penalizing them with retaliatory actions when they find another insurance policy with another provider.

PIANY introduced legislation (S.5250-sponsored by Sen. James L. Seward, R-51-and A.7742-sponsored by Assemblyman Kenneth P. Zebrowski, D-96) last year to remove the requirement for policyholders to provide 30-days' notice to withdraw from the NYSIF. The bill would afford New York state businesses the flexibility to move their insurance policies to more competitive products without bearing excessive short-rate penalties.

PIANY to focus on NYSIF's 30-days' notice requirement during the 2016 legislative session-2.

"PIANY's survey on legislative priorities has met with success in the past," said PIANY President Gene Sandy, CIC. "Last year the problems associated with certificates of insurance dominated the survey results. PIANY worked to draft legislation to regulate the improper use of certificates of insurance, which was signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in January."

PIANY is a trade association representing professional, independent insurance agencies, brokerages and their employees throughout the state.

Teri Pereira to Lead Brownyard Group's Foundation Program

Pereira takes the reins from Frank Monaco, as he retires after 40 successful years

Bay Shore, New York-October, 2015-National insurance program administrator Brownyard Group today announced the promotion of Teri Pereira, CPCU, to account manager of Foundation. Foundation provides specialized liability insurance to the domestic cosmetics industry, including manufacturers and distributors.

Pereira will be following in the footsteps of Frank Monaco, former program manager of Foundation, who retired earlier this month. Monaco spent 25 years with the Hairdressers Agency before Brownyard acquired the company and rebranded the program with two divisions, Foundation and Salon and Spa Specialty Insurance (SASSI). He remained with Brownyard leading the Foundation program for 15 more years.

"Frank was an integral part of our cosmetics and beauty programs for many years, helping grow both programs in their respective industries," said Tory Brownyard, president of the Brownyard Group. "He has left Foundation in Teri's capable hands, and we trust she will prove to be a strong leader for the program."

In her new position, Pereira is responsible for all underwriting and account servicing within the Foundation program. She joined Brownyard 13 years ago and most recently served as underwriting assistant.

About Brownyard Group
Brownyard Group is a program administrator that has developed and provided specialized insurance programs for select industries for more than 60 years. These industries include security guards, pest control operators, cosmetics manufacturers, alarm systems, private investigators and security consultants and the beauty industry. In 1993, Brownyard established Brownyard Claims Management, a loss prevention and full-service insurance claims facility. The company is based in Bay Shore, N.Y.

Media Contact: Gary Kimball, Kimball Communications, (610) 559-7585, gkimball@kimballpr.com

ISU INSURANCE AGENCY NETWORK ADDS STAFF IN NORTH CAROLINA

San Francisco, CA 11/3/15. Jack O'Connell of Charlotte, NC has joined the ISU Insurance Agency Network staff as Vice President of its Southeast Region with responsibilities to expand the ISU Network in the Region. Having devoted 35 years to the insurance industry in various aspects of the carrier, agency and network segments, Jack can empathize with independent agents' desires and challenges in their day-to-day operations.

ISU Insurance Agency Network Members enjoy benefits of the strengths and resources of a national organization while remaining completely independent and locally owned and operated. All ISU Members have direct carrier access, receive 100% of the commissions paid by the carriers, receive preferred profit sharing with no minimum premium requirements or loss ratio tiers plus full-time support services from the ISU staff in San Francisco and Southern California, Indiana, Texas, Arizona and the Carolinas. Most valued by the ISU Member agents are the individual relationships with other superior agents and the national carriers in the ISU Insurance Agency Network.

Headquartered in San Francisco since 1979, the ISU Insurance Agency Network of more than 155 qualified independent agents in 31 states, produces $2 billion of property and casualty premiums for over 300 carriers nationally who consistently recognize the ISU Network as their Better Source of Better Business©.

Additional information:
joconnell@isugroup.com 704-771-9597 or nstarr@isugroup.com

The Inaugural CHART-Exchange Summit Attracts 320 Insurance Professionals

More than 320 insurance professional gathered in Philadelphia last week to participate in the inaugural meeting of CHART-Exchange. CHART (Cover Holders and Risk Takers) was established to grow the U.S./London insurance marketplace.

"We are very pleased with the overall result of our first meeting," said Glenn Clark, president of Rockwood Programs and the "earliest adopter" of CHART. "The atmosphere was nothing short of electric. Insurance agencies from all over the country were given a unique opportunity to discuss new business ideas and concepts with decision makers from various Lloyd's syndicates as well as domestic Coverholders. Informative workshops and panels - moderated by industry experts - were made available for all participates just as importantly, the attendees were able to network and interact with each other."

"I have been involved with Coverholder business all my life," said Steve Ahern, broker at Iris Insurance Brokers. "In my experience, it has been rare to see the level of innovation that CHART has introduced into the U.S./London marketplace. Giving risk takers and insurance agencies a venue to freely exchange ideas resulted in the identification of potential new business opportunities. Iris is proud of its status as a CHART early adopter and will continue their involvement with the group in the future"

"Novae deeply values its long-standing U.S. Coverholder business," added Ross Louden, Deputy Divisional Head of Casualty at Novae Group PLC. "The opportunity to develop new relationships through CHART was not to be missed. The entrepreneurial spirit of many in attendance has mirrored that of Lloyd's syndicates such as Novae. The ability of agents and producers, who are closest to their business, to spot niches and under-served market places is something that is almost impossible to replicate from London, and it is that expertise that Novae appreciates having the opportunity to support and develop.

A highlight of the event was a Shark Tank competition - known as the Dragon's Den in the U.K. - where insurance agencies presented new ideas for insurance products and services. The competition reflected the entrepreneurial spirit of Lloyds' tradition of product innovation. The winner of "the Iris Insurance Innovation Challenge" competition was Connecticut-based Sloan & Rak Insurance Group. The firm presented a new system for evaluating property values, so they can be insured more accurately. Sloan & Rak not only won $10,000 toward product development, marketing and other costs, but also will get support to help them bring their idea to market.

"Our team took great lengths to solicit feedback on every facet of the conference." Concludes Glenn. "Each participate has been given an expansive questionnaire to provide input on the value of the Exchange and what they would like to see us do in the future. Personnel from Wilson Elser will be following up with each attendee during the month of November. Participant feedback (U.S. distributors, vendor partners and London Risk Takers) will be the building blocks for the future of the CHART-Exchange.

Visit www.chart-exchange.com for more information about CHART and the recent event in PHiladelphi. Interested parties are also invited to contact Glenn Clark directly at glenn.clark@chart-exchange.com.

Contact Information:
Glenn W. Clark, CHART Exchange: www.chart-exchange.com; (302) 765-6001

Paul Lavemhar, PLCommunications: www.chart-exchange.com; (908) 889-8884

SIAA Celebrates 20 Years of Helping Independent Agencies Grow

Nation’s largest alliance has written nearly $6 billion in premium and signed more than 5,500 member agencies

Oct. 21, 2015 – Hampton, N.H. – SIAA (Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance) today celebrated its 20th anniversary, having grown to be the nation’s largest agency alliance. With 48 master agencies, SIAA has signed more than 5,500 member agencies and generated nearly $6 billion in revenue since it was formed in 1995.

SIAA celebrates the milestone with a champagne gala in Boston this evening, with more than 425 attendees expected, including CEOs and senior officers of SIAA’s strategic (carrier) partners, principals and staff of SIAA’s master agencies, publishers and editors of insurance industry media and other business associates and friends.

“When we began to build a national network of agencies two decades ago, we focused on a mission to support the growth and continuing success of the independent agency distribution system,” said SIAA CEO Jim Masiello. “Today we celebrate the success of our integrated model with multi-level partnering, which continues to be a proven solution to help agencies grow both premium and profitability.”

The idea for SIAA grew out of the success of the Satellite Agency Network (SAN), a “master agency” comprised of independent agencies, which Masiello formed in New Hampshire in 1983 to overcome the biggest challenges facing independent agencies – growth and access to markets. Today, SIAA estimates that 13 percent of all independent agencies in the United States are or have been signed members of SIAA master agencies.

SIAA has continued to add value to members through professional development and education, access to program and specialty markets, lead generation and more:

• SIAA Business Insurance Advantage is a program that gives member agencies the ability to start or grow a profitable book of small commercial lines business.

• SIAA Agency Foundation is a program designed to assist new member start-up agencies write quality business sooner than might otherwise be possible.

• SIAA Training & Learning Center had more than 1,000 member agencies register in 2014 with a dramatic increase in the use of content, such as a series of proprietary ACORD form lessons, Business Owner Policy training and CE credits.

• SIAA MarketFinder is used by member agencies to place difficult-to-write excess and surplus lines and specialty market business.

• Insurancedeals4u (ID4U) is a consumer-facing web portal SIAA rolled out in 2004 to provide consumer access to all SIAA member agencies. It had more than 25,000 site visits providing 4,500 consumer leads to member agencies in 2014.

About SIAA
SIAA is a national insurance agency alliance dedicated to the creation, retention, growth and continued success of the independent insurance agency distribution system. SIAA has signed more than 5,500 member agencies through 48 master agencies across the country since its inception in 1995. Of that member number, SIAA and its Master Agencies have created 3,100 new start-up agencies coming predominantly from former captive agents. An estimated 13 percent of all independent agencies in the U.S. are or have been signed members of SIAA. SIAA brings profitable premium growth and quality relationship integration between its member agencies and strategic partner companies, and provides a wide range of resources to help agencies increase sales, retention, revenue and value. For more information on SIAA visit www.siaa.net.

Henderson Appointed Senior Field Representative for Berkshire Hathaway GUARD

WILKES-BARRE, PA - Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies recently added Chris Henderson as a Senior Field Representative to promote targeted growth in Florida, including the addition of a multiline commercial insurance solution - BizGUARD Plus - that encompasses Workers' Compensation, Businessowner's Policy, and Umbrella coverage targeted to a wide range of operations. In his new capacity, Henderson is responsible for identifying prospects for appointments while providing information about available resources and new developments to existing members of the distribution network. He also functions as agents' field liaison with Berkshire Hathaway GUARD's underwriting, loss control, and claims staff.

Henderson has nearly three decades of experience working with both insurers and independent agents. According to Assistant Vice President of Regional Sales Steve Franklin, "Berkshire Hathaway GUARD is anxious to build on our strong market presence in Florida as well as our new products, and Chris Henderson's knowledge of the state should help us do just that." Franklin added, "We have agency appointments available; we believe Chris is the right person to help us fill those openings."

In October of 2012, GUARD Insurance Group was acquired by National Indemnity Company, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway - an international holding company with diverse interests that include insurance and reinsurance. In 2013, GUARD unveiled a new identity as Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies. Each of the organization's carriers (AmGUARD, EastGUARD, NorGUARD, and WestGUARD) are rated A+ ("Superior") by A.M. Best - a leading source of independent rating information on the insurance industry. In 2014, Berkshire Hathaway GUARD had over $600 million in sales and issued 100,000 polices.

Agents interested in learning more can contact the company on-line at www.guard.com/apply.

DAWN LAW TO LEAD AMERICAN INSURANCE SERVICES AGENCY, NEW JERSEY AGENCY NETWORK AND COMP-CARE BROKERAGE

Nick San Filippo to Assume CEO Role

CLARK, N.J., September 24, 2015 - American Insurance Services Agency announced today that Dawn Law has been named president of the firm and its affiliated companies. She succeeds company founder Nick San Filippo, who assumes the role of chief executive officer and will be responsible for business and opportunities development. Law has been with the agency since 1985 and has been a vice president and principal since 2004.

"Dawn joined American Insurance Services Agency as a personal lines customer service representative and has advanced through commercial lines, operations and leadership roles since then," San Filippo explains. "She has been a major factor in the company's successes and is more than capable of leading the company in the future."

"For the past 11 years, I've been privileged to work alongside Nick as a co-owner of this highly-successful agency," Law says. "We're well positioned for future growth, thanks to our multi-faceted distribution approach and the strong group of insurance professionals who make up our team."

American Insurance Services operated as a traditional independent agency before creating New Jersey Agency Network, a Master Agency for Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA,) in 1994. The firm formed Comp-Care Brokerage in 1997 to service the retail insurance community. "We plan to continue to expand our footprint in the insurance industry by creating new and inventive opportunities," Law notes.

She says one reason for the agency's success was management's recognition, early on, that independent insurance agencies would be challenged by only having one source of distribution. "Over the years, we've built strong retail, wholesale and integrator capabilities that allow us to respond to the varied and often-changing needs of clients and prospects in any market," she explains.

About American Insurance Services Agency: Clark, N.J.-based American Insurance Services Agency has been helping individuals and businesses with their insurance needs since 1976.

Website: americanins.com

Worldwide Facilities, LLC Appoints New Vice President & New York Casualty Practice Leader

Leading Wholesale Insurance Brokerage Expands Resources in New York Office

New York, NY (September 22, 2015) - Worldwide Facilities, LLC is pleased to announce that Bill Craane has joined the company's New York City office in the position of Vice President & NY Casualty Practice Leader.

With 15 years of experience as an Excess and Surplus Lines broker in New York, Bill offers extensive expertise and contacts to expand the office's tools and resources.

"I chose Worldwide because I saw a progressive, forward thinking company that isn't content to keep the status quo as the industry continues to change," Craane says. "My goal in this new position is to develop the New York office's resources and services so that our clients always call Worldwide first, no matter the line of business."

Commenting on the hire, Don Privett said, "The New York office has had spectacular growth in the past year. Bill is a great addition to a successful team. His superb market relationships have already resulted in new wins and his expertise will be a big help to our valued clients."

Contact Bill Craane
Vice President, NY Casualty Practice Leader
Office: 212-542-2424 | Mobile: 917-523-5816
BCraane@wwfi.com

About Worldwide Facilities, LLC
Worldwide Facilities is a national wholesale broker and managing general agent. In business since 1970, our seasoned brokers and underwriters are industry leaders in providing specialized expertise in a wide range of specialty lines, as well as extensive contacts with carriers domestically and overseas.

RT SPECIALTY ACQUIRES A.J. RENNER & ASSOCIATES

September 1, 2015, CHICAGO, IL - R-T Specialty, LLC (RT Specialty), the wholesale brokerage unit of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, today announced that it has acquired the assets of A.J. Renner & Associates, a leading wholesale specialty insurance broker in the Life Science arena. Following the close of the transaction, the core of the life science team of A.J. Renner will be joining RT Specialty.

A.J. Renner & Associates was founded in 1985 as an excess and surplus lines broker specializing in insurance products for life science, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, clinical trials, medical devices, healthcare and long-term care. A.J. Renner also offers exclusive programs for product liability in the generic and specialty pharmaceutical industry through an integrated platform of risk management, claims management and experienced underwriting.

RT Specialty President & CEO, Timothy W. Turner says, "This transaction advances our strategy in the Life Science field in a meaningful way and represents RT Specialty's continued commitment to providing cutting- edge risk management solutions to our Life Science clients."

Alison Renner, CEO of A.J. Renner & Associates, says, "We are excited to join the dynamic group at RT Specialty that Pat Ryan and Tim Turner have built over the past few years. The strong platforms at RT Specialty give us unique opportunities to expand the solutions that are available to Life Sciences clients."

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Ryan Specialty Group, LLC and R-T Specialty, LLC
Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a global holding company which includes wholesale broker R-T Specialty, LLC, a select group of highly-specialized underwriting companies, a London operation and other specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. www.ryansg.com and www.rtspecialty.com

About Vista Insurance Partners of Illinois /dba/A.J. Renner & Associates
A.J. Renner & Associates is the trade name used by Vista Insurance Partners of Illinois, Inc. A.J. Renner & Associates is a leading wholesale specialty insurance broker with a passion for developing unique insurance solutions through creative problem solving. Best known as the leaders in the Life Science insurance arena A.J Renner has exclusive programs for pharmaceuticals product liability. A.J. Renner has been providing specialty insurance products and services for a broad range of industries for 30 years. www.ajrenner.com.

For more information on this release, contact Angie Tegan, (312) 339-4970: angie.tegan@ryansg.com

RT Specialty
R-T Specialty, LLC (RT), a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, provides wholesale brokerage and other services to agents and brokers. RT is a Delaware limited liability company based in Illinois. As a wholesale broker, RT does not solicit insurance from the public. Some products may only be available in certain states, and some products may only be available from surplus lines insurers. In California: R-T Specialty Insurance Services, LLC License #0G97516.© 2015 Ryan Specialty Group, LLC.

CONCORD SPECIALTY RISK HIRES LIDORE DeROSE AS SENIOR UNDERWRITING COUNSEL, R&W INSURANCE

New York City, NY. August 28, 2015 - Concord Specialty Risk, a managing general underwriter and/or underwriting agent for a number of carriers and a series of RSG Underwriting Managers, LLC, specializing in providing transactional risk insurance, today announced that it has hired Lidore DeRose as Senior Underwriting Counsel, R&W Insurance effective immediately. R&W Insurance covers buyers or sellers (and lenders) in connection with representations made in an extraordinary transaction. It often allows for a reduced escrow, reduced indemnity cap, a policy period that is lengthier than the escrow period, etc.

Prior to this position, Ms. DeRose was an Associate, Corporate Practice for Kirkland & Ellis LLP M&A practice in New York and an Associate, Corporate and Securities Practice for DLA Piper LLP. Lidore received a Master of Science in Engineering at the University of Michigan before studying law at New York University, where she received her law degree.

"Lidore offers 10 years of sophisticated M&A experience at top law firms that have frequently directed their clients to use R&W Insurance. Her experience with M&A and R&W Insurance solutions is a great addition to Concord. It further bolsters the level of in-house professionalism and further assures Concord's ability to timely meet the expectations of our insureds and brokers in this current environment of high volume demand for R&W Insurance," said Kenneth W. De Berry, President of Concord Specialty Risk.

Lidore is admitted to practice law in New York, New Jersey and District of Columbia. She will report directly to the President of Concord.

Lidore's contact information is shown below:

Lidore Alexandra DeRose
Senior Underwriting Counsel
Concord Specialty Risk
347 W. 36th Street, Suite 203
New York, NY 10018
t: 646.612.7824
e: lidorederose@concordspecialtyrisk.com

RT Specialty's Retired Directors Assurance Underwriting Services (RDAUS) Announces Full Underwriting Authority for Retired Directors Assurance

August 3rd, 2015, CHICAGO, IL - R-T Specialty, LLC's Retired Directors Assurance Underwriting Services, a division of R-T Specialty, LLC, announced today a new binding authority for the Retired Directors Assurance (RDA) policy, which provides contingent liability coverage for individual retired Directors (Side A Coverage) on a six year basis.

The RDA policy coverage is underwritten by Retired Directors Assurance Underwriting Services (RDAUS), a Managing General Agent for QBE Specialty Insurance Company, the policy carrier.

Philip L. Blais, President and CEO of RDAUS says of the new binding authority, "We are pleased to be in a position to offer this very important coverage to retired directors of public, private and non-profit organizations in the U.S. Our ability to underwrite, quote, bind and service business from our Dallas, Texas location for all North American retailers will provide trading partners and clients with superior service."

The RDA policy will be underwritten in Dallas, Texas by the RDAUS team that includes Philip L. Blais and Philip T. Blais, both seasoned directors and officers underwriters.

The RDA policy provides:

• Six year runoff coverage;
• Limit options up to $10,000,000;
• No deductible provisions;
• Full prior acts coverage;
• Excess over all other insurance and indemnity agreements;
• Non-cancelable - non rescindable;
• Underlying coverage and exposure assessment feature (each year for six years);
• Stand-alone dedicated limits;
• Non-pyramiding limit provisions;
• Expanded difference-in-conditions (DIC) provisions for ERISA, Pollution, etc.;
• Full punitive damages cover;
• No insured vs. Insured exclusion;
• Spousal-Domestic Partner Liability extension;
• And more

For more information on this release, contact Tara Shertenlieb, (816) 412-7564, tara.shertenlieb@rtspecialty.com

For more information on RSG and its subsidiaries, contact Chelsey Krull, (312) 784-6043, ckrull@ryansg.com.

About R-T Specialty, LLC and Retired Directors Assurance Underwriting Services (RDAUS)
Retired Directors Assurance Underwriting Services (RDAUS) is a division of R-T Specialty, LLC. R-T Specialty, LLC is an independent wholesale brokerage concentrating on tough property, casualty, transportation and professional liability risks, RT does not solicit insurance from the public. Some products may only be available in certain states, and some products may only be available from surplus lines insurers. R-T Specialty, LLC (RT) is a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC (RSG), a global holding company which includes highly-specialized underwriting companies through RSG Underwriting Managers, LLC, a London operation, wholesale brokerage and other specialty services designed specifically for agents, brokers and insurers. In California: R-T Specialty Insurance Services, LLC License #0G97516.

For more information on RSG and RT, visit www.ryansg.com and www.rtspecialty.com.

Appulate Now More Than 18,000 Retail Agencies

Roughly Half Of All Independent Retail Agencies Use Appulate For Upload To Insurance Markets

Agoura Hills, CA – August 3, 2015 Appulate, Inc. announces that it has seen dramatic growth to its network of independent retail agencies. As of the end of July, 2015, Appulate Uplink™ is now used by 18,255 retail agencies nationwide.

Appulate Uplink™ is used by retail agencies to bridge ACORD and other submission data from their agency management system to insurance markets. The technology is provided for free to retail agencies and removes the need for them to re-key data into carrier websites to obtain quotes.

Recent industry data shows that there are roughly 36,000 independent retail agencies in the United States and more than half are now using Appulate. “This adoption far exceeds our expectations,” said Dimitri Nikouline, Co-Founder of Appulate, Inc. “The network of retail agencies we now proudly serve has more than doubled this year,” stated Nikouline.

Appulate makes it easier for retail agencies to do business with their markets by removing much of the tedious data entry in the submission / quoting process. The technology is the only upload solution in the marketplace that offers connectivity from any retail agency management system.

About Appulate
Appulate, “The Insurance Automation Company™” offers an unprecedented level of automation to streamline the submission processes through its innovative abilities to bridge data between insurance systems. Today, Appulate technology is used by more than 18,000 retail agents and has been recognized by key industry groups and analysts for its contribution to time and cost savings. The combination of Appulate’s advanced technology, outstanding level of service and high value proposition has made them one of the fastest growing technology companies that serve the insurance industry.

Visit Appulate at www.Appulate.com

Freberg Environmental, Inc. Appoints Renee Miller, Senior Vice President

Denver, CO., July 28, 2015 -- Freberg Environmental Insurance (FEI) has named Renee Miller to lead its environmental consultants and contracting program. Renee will be based in Denver and lead Freberg's flagship environmental program providing general liability, contractors' pollution and professional liability for environmental firms across the U.S. Renee joins Freberg from Zurich where she was a Senior Account Executive within the international construction and environmental divisions.

"We are very pleased to have Renee join Freberg as part of our executive team," said Stacy Brown, President and Managing Partner. "She brings with her the experience, ideals and knowledge of the environmental insurance industry that will allow us to continue to further expand our customer base with the fast, friendly and knowledgeable service we have been known for since 1991."

Founded in 1991, FEI is an insurance program manager specializing in the development and marketing of insurance programs nationwide. Underwriting on behalf of leading insurance carriers, FEI has become a comprehensive, flexible and responsive market for brokers serving environmental and other niche markets. Since its inception in 1991, FEI has earned a solid reputation with agents, insurance carriers and reinsurers for its ability to identify and quickly respond to market needs with innovative, financially sound products. As an insurance program manager, FEI does all underwriting and pricing, provides quotations and binds coverage. FEI also prepares policies, maintains endorsements and handles loss control activities.

For additional Information, please contact:
Stacy D. Brown
President, Managing Partner
Freberg Environmental Insurance
2000 South Colorado Blvd o Tower II, Suite 800 o Denver, CO 80222
Telephone: 303.534.1171 o Toll Free: 800.377.4152 o Fax: 303.623.8101

First Financial Bank Expands Service Offerings with Acquisition of Oak Street Holdings Corporation

CINCINNATI, July 23, 2015 /PRNewswire/ --First Financial Bank, N.A., a subsidiary of First Financial Bancorp (Nasdaq: FFBC) (collectively "the Company" and "First Financial"), signed a definitive agreement to acquire Oak Street Holdings Corporation ("Oak Street") for $110 million in cash.

Oak Street, a nationwide lender based in Indianapolis, Indiana, was formed in 2003 to provide commission-based loans to help insurance agents and brokers maximize their book-of-business value and grow their agency business. Oak Street had total assets of $242 million and total loans of $238 million as of June 30, 2015. Oak Street is majority owned by Angelo, Gordon & Co., a privately-held registered investment advisor dedicated to alternative investing. Upon completion of the acquisition, Oak Street will become a subsidiary of First Financial Bank, with Rick Dennen, Oak Street's founder and President, continuing in his current position.

"We view a combination with Oak Street as a tremendous opportunity to expand and diversify our service offerings and also provide Oak Street's team with the balance sheet and funding capacity necessary to continue to grow the business," said Claude Davis, Chairman & CEO of First Financial Bank. "We are very excited by the cultural and business fit between the two organizations and the growth and profitability profile of Oak Street. This acquisition will complement our existing nationwide franchise finance business which currently has over $500 million of loans outstanding. We look forward to welcoming Oak Street's associates and clients to First Financial."

"We are excited about our partnership with First Financial Bank, one of the most respected community banks in the country," said Rick Dennen, President of Oak Street. "Like Oak Street, First Financial has an entrepreneurial culture and is a nimble organization that will provide a very supportive environment from which to build on our success. We look forward to joining First Financial Bank and leveraging our combined strengths for continued growth."

"The success of our partnership with Oak Street, which commenced in 2010, has exceeded our expectations," said Art Peponis, Head of Private Equity at Angelo, Gordon & Co. "Oak Street, the premier commercial finance platform focused on insurance industry financing, has achieved significant growth in both portfolio balances and profitability over the last five years. In First Financial Bank, Oak Street has found a strong, high quality partner to help the company fully realize its growth potential."

The Boards of Directors of both companies have approved the transaction. Completion of the acquisition is expected within 30 days.

First Financial estimates the following financial impact from this acquisition in the first full year of operation:

• Operating earnings per share accretion of $0.16 -$0.20,
• Net interest margin expansion of more than 0.20% related to Oak Street's portfolio yield of approximately 9.0%,
• Return on average tangible common equity increase of more than 270 basis points,
• Excellent risk-adjusted returns with expected annual net charge offs to total loans of approximately 0.50% and
• Tangible book value dilution earn back between 4 -5 years

RBC Capital Markets, LLC acted as financial advisor to First Financial and Frost Brown Todd LLC acted as its legal advisor. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. acted as financial advisor to Oak Street and Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP acted as its legal advisor.

Alesha Hyatt-Lanuto Hired as Internal Broker at Worldwide Facilities, Inc.

Hartford, CT (June 17, 2015) - Worldwide Facilities, Inc. is pleased to announce that Alesha Hyatt-Lanuto will take on the role of Internal Broker at its new Connecticut office.

Hyatt-Lanuto has worked in the excess and surplus lines market for more than eight years. She spent three years as Assistant Vice President for a national real estate program, and has recent experience as a binding authority underwriter. In this role, she will be responsible for production in brokerage and binding throughout the Northeast region.

"Alesha has such diverse experience, on both the brokerage and retail side," says Senior Vice President/Branch Manager Patricia Roth. "We're confident she'll bring an in-depth understanding of the needs of agents to the role."

"Service is extremely important to me, and it's crucial to my relationship-building efforts," says Hyatt-Lanuto. "I'm looking forward to developing relationships with agencies in the Northeast."

Contact Patricia Roth
Senior Vice President and Branch Manager
(860) 990-2431
proth@wwfi.com

About Worldwide Facilities, Inc.
Worldwide Facilities is a national wholesale broker and managing general agent with twelve offices nationwide. In business since 1970, our seasoned team of brokers and underwriters leads the industry in providing specialized expertise in a wide range of specialty lines, as well as extensive contacts with carriers domestically and overseas.

Media Contact: Erika Guerra, EGuerra@wwfi.com, Direct: (213) 236-4509

Worldwide Facilities, Inc., Welcomes Stacy Labbe as Senior Associate Broker

Hartford, CT (June 17, 2015) - Worldwide Facilities, Inc., a leading nationwide wholesale broker and managing general agent, announced today that Stacy Labbe will be taking on the role of Senior Associate Broker at its new Connecticut office.

Labbe brings over 17 years of both agency- and carrier-side experience in excess and surplus lines insurance to the position. She plans on playing a critical role in expanding the new office's book of business throughout the New England region.

"I'm thrilled to have this opportunity," Labbe says. "I'm looking forward to helping make Worldwide Facilities the top wholesaler in the excess and surplus lines market throughout New England."

"Stacy will be a strong asset to our New England office," says Senior Vice President/Branch Manager Patricia Roth. "She has an in-depth understanding of the wholesale platform, and has the expertise to navigate the proper industry channels to provide excellent service to our clients."

Contact Patricia Roth
Senior Vice President and Branch Manager
(860) 990-2431
proth@wwfi.com

About Worldwide Facilities, Inc.
Worldwide Facilities is a national wholesale broker and managing general agent with twelve offices nationwide. In business since 1970, our seasoned team of brokers and underwriters leads the industry in providing specialized expertise in a wide range of specialty lines, as well as extensive contacts with carriers domestically and overseas.

Media Contact: Erika Guerra, EGuerra@wwfi.com, Direct: (213) 236-4509

Suzanne Averill Takes on Role as Senior Associate Broker for Worldwide Facilities' New Connecticut Office

Hartford, CT (June 25, 2015) - National wholesale broker and managing general agent Worldwide Facilities is pleased to welcome Suzanne Averill as Senior Associate Broker at its new office in Connecticut.

Averill brings 32 years of experience in both retail and wholesale brokerage, with a history of success building key relationships both internally and with external partners.

"Suzanne is going to play an important client-facing role at the new office," says Senior Vice President/Branch Manager Patricia Roth. "We're looking forward to having the benefit of her expertise in maintaining strong relationships with both carriers and clients."

"I'm thrilled to be part of the new Connecticut office," Averill says. "We have a great team of professionals and I am excited to be part of Worldwide Facilities with all of the markets, products and exclusive programs that we have to offer."

Contact Patricia Roth
Senior Vice President and Branch Manager
(860) 990-2431
proth@wwfi.com

About Worldwide Facilities, Inc.
Worldwide Facilities is a national wholesale broker and managing general agent with twelve offices nationwide. In business since 1970, our seasoned team of brokers and underwriters leads the industry in providing specialized expertise in a wide range of specialty lines, as well as extensive contacts with carriers domestically and overseas.

Media Contact: Erika Guerra, EGuerra@wwfi.com, Direct: (213) 236-4509

Worldwide Facilities, LLC Receives Significant Investment from Lovell Minnick Partners

Los Angeles, CA and Radnor, PA - July 6, 2015 - Worldwide Facilities, LLC, a national wholesale insurance broker and managing general agent, has received a significant investment from Lovell Minnick Partners, a private equity firm specializing in financial and related business services companies. Following the transaction, Worldwide Facilities will continue to be majority-owned by its employees. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 1970 and based in Los Angeles, Worldwide Facilities is one of the largest wholesale insurance brokerage companies in the U.S. As a national wholesale broker, Worldwide Facilities places excess and surplus lines insurance on behalf of retail agents and brokers, and their insureds. The company also has been successful in growing its proprietary program and managing general agency businesses. Worldwide Facilities has more than 190 employees across 11 offices in major metropolitan areas including Atlanta, Chicago, Hartford, Houston, Irvine, Los Angeles, New York, Orlando, Phoenix, San Francisco and Seattle.

"We are enthused about our next chapter of growth and the capital base that we have put in place to support it. We look forward to continuing to invest in the development and growth of our company by creating new products, adding to our team of capable and seasoned producers, and making strategic acquisitions," said Davis Moore, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Worldwide Facilities. "Lovell Minnick Partners has a strong track record in helping financial services companies such as ours advance their businesses. They share our vision for the future of Worldwide Facilities, and they have the resources and expertise to support our plan. We are excited to partner with them."

"Worldwide Facilities is clearly a market leader, and has achieved impressive, consistent organic growth while developing deep expertise in specialized insurance solutions. Their strong relationships with retail agents and brokers and insurance carriers, and their dedication to client service, have put them in a position to further grow and thrive" stated Robert Belke, a Managing Director at Lovell Minnick Partners, which has made investments in a variety of brokerage businesses. "We look forward to working with this management team, led by Davis Moore and Ron Austin, to support and drive execution of their growth strategy."

Waller Helms Advisors, LLC served as financial advisor, and Musick, Peeler & Garrett LLP acted as legal counsel to Worldwide Facilities. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc served as financial advisor, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Lovell Minnick Partners.

About Worldwide Facilities
Worldwide Facilities LLC is a national wholesale insurance broker and managing general agent. In business since 1970, the seasoned team of brokers and underwriters are industry leaders in providing specialized products in a wide range of specialty lines, as well as having extensive relationships with domestic and international carriers. For more information please visit, http://www.wwfi.com.

About Lovell Minnick Partners
Lovell Minnick Partners LLC is a private equity firm focused on the financial and related business services sectors. Lovell Minnick provides developing companies with equity capital to support private company recapitalizations, leveraged buyouts, and pursue growth initiatives. Since its inception in 1999, Lovell Minnick Partners has raised over $1.3 billion in committed capital and has completed investments in over 30 companies. Targeted investment areas include asset management, financial product distribution, insurance, banks, specialty finance, and related technology and business services. For more information, please visit www.lovellminnick.com.

Media Contact: Anita Nevins, anita@webdcmarketing.com, Direct: (707) 429-0877

Florida Association of Insurance Agents (FAIA)

Florida Association of Insurance Agents (FAIA) Installed new officers and board members, and gave thanks to its outgoing board members during its Business & Awards Breakfast, held in conjunction with the 111th Anniversary Convention & Education Symposium, on June 20, 2015.

New Officers

•Chip Greene, president and CEO of Jacksonville-based Greene-Hazel Insurance Group, was elected chairman;

•Brian R. Scarborough, CIC, REBC, vice president and co-owner of Scarborough Insurance in Gainesville, was elected chairman-elect; and

•Douglass F. Wiles, CPCU, president and owner of Herbie Wiles Insurance in St. Augustine, was elected vice-chairman.

Chip Greene, President & CEO of Greene Hazel Insurance Group, manages all of the firm’s business activities and leads the company’s Management & Executive Committee. Chip is also associated with Dreams Come True- Board of Directors, University of Florida Foundation- Jacksonville Advisory Council ,Tom Coughlin Jay Fund- Volunteer ,Sebastian Ferrero Foundation- Volunteer, Jacksonville Oceanside Rotary, and Gator Bowl Association- Standing Committee Chair. He has been recognized as Jacksonville Business Journal’s 40 under 40, People on the Move, and Up & Comers in 2009 and will continue to expand in each area in the years to come.

Commercial Leads Provider Insurance Xdate Announces Vendor Partnership with Iroquois Group

Iroquois' newest Vendor Partner Insurance Xdate provides a prospecting and lead database for commercial insurance agencies to simplify the new business sales process, increase the efficiency of agencies' production efforts and increase new business revenue.

With a focus on data, commercial agencies join Insurance Xdate to identify their target market using robust search criteria including policy expiration date, location, industry, current carrier and premium size indicators.

Included in the data is contact information such as phone #, name/title of an executive and link to the business's website. Additionally, Insurance Xdate maintains class code Loss Costs' and carrier filed LCM's so an agent knows the approximate rate the prospect is paying.

Currently available in 9 states, subscriptions start at just $100 a month and Iroquois' agencies receive a 25% discount on the base level subscription.

To sign up for a free trial and view their service visit: www.InsuranceXdate.com

For more information or any questions contact:
Rob Gifford
Co-Founder, Sales Director
rob@insurancexdate.com
o) 215-839-9991

NAS Insurance Announces New Leadership Team for Specialty Reinsurance and Programs

Encino, CA: NAS Insurance today announced the expanded capabilities and leadership of its Specialty Reinsurance and Programs division. David Lloyd, NAS' Chief Operating Officer, will continue to helm the team as Joseph Reitzel joins as Senior Vice President.

"We continue to see strong demand for our reinsurance programs including our cyber liability insurance solutions," remarked Lloyd. "Joe brings a wealth of experience in building reinsurance relationships and we're thrilled to have him on board. Joe will help expand NAS' national footprint adding a new operational center for us in Minneapolis." NAS, headquartered in Los Angeles, has recently expanded operations to Atlanta, Boston and Chicago, as well.

As a core component of its specialty insurance business, NAS provides its market-leading cyber liability insurance solution to a broad range of mutual insurance carriers. NAS' recent promotional video demonstrates how uniquely NAS integrates and supports cyber liability programs with its carrier partners.

"Providing outstanding service to our clients is our number one priority," stated Richard Robin, CEO of NAS Insurance. "Expanding our Specialty Reinsurance market presence brings us closer to our customers and enables us to rapidly deliver the highest quality of service."

NAS Insurance is a full-service specialty insurance underwriting manager that provides innovative product development, underwriting, marketing, risk management, and claims handling services for a broad range of specialty insurance products.

For more information about NAS Insurance and the expansion of Specialty Reinsurance and Programs, please contact:

Jeremy Barnett, Senior Vice President Marketing
NAS Insurance Services
818.382.6116

GMI Celebrating 35 Years of Auto Expertise

Second Generation MGA Continues Commitment to Clients

June 15, 2015, Valley Forge, PA - GMI Insurance is proud to announce the company is celebrating 35 years in the commercial auto business. Founded in February, 1980 by Norman Trudel, this family-owned insurance company is operated by the second generation of Trudels; Mark, Karen, Carter and Michael. Launched as an innovative provider of rental car fleet insurance program, GMI Insurance has expanded to a broader range of commercial auto insurance products including business auto, auto lease and recently, specialized auto for commercial pilot vehicles.

Commenting on this company milestone, GMI President Mark Trudel said, "Our family is extremely proud to carry on our father's dream for 35 years and counting. Looking back we have been through many market cycles and industry challenges, but we remain a consistent, committed company to the industry. We believe our energy and commitment to client service is best summarized in our signature tagline, Driven by Auto Expertise."

"We are so pleased with GMI Insurance. Our office writes a lot of transportation accounts and GMI has helped us place some difficult accounts with great coverages." stated Dirk DeJong, CEO of Frank H. Furman, Inc. "GMI is a professional operation with very knowledgeable underwriters. We look forward to continued profitable growth with them."

GMI's Chief Operating Officer Karen Trudel adds, "One of company's greatest achievements was establishing a long-term relationship with our commercial auto claims partner, Corporate Claims Service. We have maintained this partnership largely due to their track record for responsive claims investigations, resolution and, importantly, timely claims reimbursement."

Michael Dubyk, VP of Operations at Corporate Claims Service captures the essence of GMI's devotion to its collective clients in the following statement: "We believe in collaboration on every claim. Our team delivers prompt and accurate claim data entry and follows every claim from receipt right through resolution. Like our partner GMI, we sincerely care about our customers."

About GMI Insurance
GMI Insurance Services, founded in 1980, is one of the fastest growing specialty insurance Managing General Agency in the country. The company's suite of transportation related programs includes Business Auto, Rental Auto, Auto Lease and Contingent Auto Physical Damage. To learn more about GMI's 35 Year Celebration, please visit www.gmi-insurance.com.

Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc.'s (ISA) Private Client Group (PCG)

Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc.'s (ISA) Private Client Group (PCG) division recently met a long-term goal set for them by both AIG and ISA. To celebrate this accomplishment, members of AIG management visited the ISA PCG division. "ISA's partnership with AIG continues to grow stronger as does our success with the program. Our success can also be greatly attributed to the amazing family of brokers we've come to build relationships with" says Mark Madsen, AVP of ISA's PCG Division.

In addition to premium goals, the PCG division is constantly raising the bar with regards to the standards for service they provide to their brokers and insureds. They have been praised for their breadth of knowledge and understanding with regards to the coverage, loss prevention, and other unique needs of affluent clients.

"We are elated with the ongoing success of the PCG Division. Since the division started, they have met and exceeded their goals in premium, while providing superior service and coverage to our brokers and clients." Howard Siegel, CEO

ABOUT IRWIN SIEGEL AGENCY
In addition to Supporting Those Who Support Others™ by providing insurance and risk management solutions to social and human service providers, Irwin Siegel Agency, Inc. offers tailored solutions for high net-worth individuals. With an exclusive range of products through major carriers, access is available to independent agents and brokers - without typical production requirements. Learn more about the company, products and services at www.isapcg.com and www.siegelagency.com

Leff Joins Jimcor Agency, Inc. Management Team

MONTVALE, N.J. - Joseph M. Leff has joined Jimcor Agency, Inc. as Branch Manager of the Saratoga Springs, NY office. He brings with him over 15 years of industry experience with wholesalers and carriers. "Joe has grown up in the insurance industry and brings with him both the underwriting and leadership skills needed for the branch manager position," stated John George, Senior VP and Regional Manager. "He will be an excellent addition to the upstate NY office and the Jimcor Agency, Inc. management team."

Headquartered in Montvale, NJ, Jimcor Agency, Inc. is an independent excess and surplus lines wholesaler with seven offices located throughout New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, and has the ability to service other states around the country. Jimcor's goal is to provide clients with superior service and access to admitted and nonadmitted markets through its binding authority and brokerage divisions (Jimcor Select Risk) as well as online and phone quoting systems, allowing agents to successfully write more business.

Joseph Leff can be reached via email at jleff@jimcor.com.

Stephen Holcombe Joins Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. as Senior Account Executive

For Immediate Release:
Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. has announced the hiring of Stephen A. Holcombe to support its northeast region of the country. Steve will be handling new business brokerage opportunities and growing the company's agent base in this territory. He brings over 8 years of insurance experience, working with both carriers and MGAs, and most recently growing specialty insurance programs.

"We are excited to have Steve join us. His experience working with niche products makes him an excellent fit for our team," said Bill Pritchard, President of Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. "Steve recognizes the importance of helping our partner agencies understand the opportunities represented by the coverages we offer, and should be a great addition to our Northeast Regional Team."

Beacon Hill continues to successfully expand in all parts of the country and attract leaders in the environmental marketplace, both internally and with its carrier & agent partners.

Now in its 25th year of business, Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. is a leader in providing environmental and energy coverages to agents around the country. They take pride in offering their agents and insureds effective coverage from quality carriers in a fast, efficient manner. Beacon Hill takes a consultative approach to its business, and has developed many resources they make available to partner agencies to help educate their clients about environmental exposures. Beacon Hill currently writes business in forty-eight states, and corresponds with over 4,000 agents regularly. Having handled more than 50,000 accounts since 1990, they have the experience necessary to be successful in today's competitive marketplace.

Additional information on Beacon Hill Associates and its products and services can be found at www.b-h-a.com or by calling 1-800-596-2156.

Brownyard Group Wins 2015 TMPAA Marketing Campaign Award at Target Markets Mid-Year Meeting

Bay Shore, N.Y. - May xx, 2015 - The multi-faceted "Be Sure" marketing campaign has earned Brownyard Group (www. brownyard.com) a Target Markets Program Administrators Association (TMPAA) Marketing Campaign Award. It was the fifth consecutive year that Brownyard won the award.

Brownyard, a program administrator providing specialized insurance coverage for select industry groups, was presented with the award on May 6 at the TMPAA Mid-Year Meeting in Atlanta.

Brownyard's "Be Sure" campaign included print ads and emails to brokers and buyers across five different industries, including: pest control operators, security guards, private investigator and security consultants, cosmetic manufacturers, spas and salons. The campaign was developed by Vertibrands, a full-service marketing agency specializing in the insurance industry.

"We're honored to have won this prestigious award among our peers at Target Markets," said Tory Brownyard, president of Brownyard Group. "The campaign effectively communicated the security that brokers and insureds feel when working with industry experts at Brownyard."

This was TMPAA's 5th annual Marketing Campaign Competition in conjunction with the Insurance Marketing & Communications Association (IMCA). IMCA is a highly regarded, international organization of insurance professionals who specialize in marketing, communications, advertising, sales promotion and public relations.

About Brownyard Group
Brownyard Group is a program administrator that has developed and provided specialized insurance programs for select industries for more than 60 years. These industries include security guards, pest control operators, cosmetics manufacturers, alarm systems, private investigators and security consultants and the beauty industry. In 1993, Brownyard established Brownyard Claims Management, a loss prevention and full-service insurance claims facility. The company is based in Bay Shore, N.Y.

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI) Expands Personal Insurance Division with Formation of Reliance Risk Solutions

OAK RIDGE, Tenn., May 26th, 2015 - AUI has created a new vertical within the Personal Lines Division to focus on the High Net Worth property and casualty personal insurance needs of its 30,000 agency partners. Reliance Risk Solutions (RRS) allows AUI to expand beyond their existing Personal Lines portfolio and place coverage for accounts that are unique, unusual, or require a high capacity. Reliance Risk Solutions is managed by Paul Kountz; who most recently managed five states for Fireman's Fund and previously held a similar role at AIG. "Reliance Risk Solutions is uniquely positioned in the market by affording agents a consultative experience that not only draws upon the depth of knowledge of each placement specialist, but also leverages the technological resources that AUI has been known to provide. This value proposition provides our agency partners a critical advantage in attracting and retaining high net worth clients." said Tagge Stroom, Direct of Personal Lines and Xpress Services.

For more information, please visit www.appund.com/RRS

Contact: Paul Kountz (Director, Reliance Risk Solutions) 865.481.5061, paul.kountz@appund.com

Submissions rrs@appund.com, Fax 888.220.1632

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. is a full-service MGA and Wholesale Insurance Brokerage, providing independent agents a national outlet to multiple specialized markets for Workers' Compensation, Commercial Specialty, and Personal Lines of insurance. AUI's home office is located at 800 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Suite A-1000 - Oak Ridge, TN 37830. With Satellite Offices in: San Diego, CA - Kennesaw, GA - Altamonte Springs, FL - Sarasota, FL - Murfreesboro, TN.

MORE THAN $5 BILLION IN BUSINESS WRITTEN AT 89TH ANNUAL AAMGA MEETING

Association Introduces Its Inaugural Specialty Programs Track

KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa., May 26, 2015 – Current estimates are that more than $5 billion in insurance premium was written during the course of the American Association of Managing General Agents’ (AAMGA) 89th Annual Meeting in Maryland between May 17 to May 20. In addition to welcoming 1,120 attendees, the meeting also introduced AAMGA’s inaugural specialty programs track. AAMGA leadership also welcomed a number of newly installed members and prospective members from across the U.S. and Canada, including many of the premier Canadian managing general agents (MGAs) from the provinces of Manitoba, the Maritimes, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec.

“This was an incredibly successful and productive annual meeting,” explained AAMGA’s new president, Roger Ware of Genesee General in Alpharetta, Ga. “Our members were fortunate to gain a first-hand, global insurance market perspective from our Annual Business Meeting speaker, Chairman John Nelson of Lloyd’s. In addition to Chairman Nelson, we discussed a number of the emerging issues in the industry that our Emerging Issues & Trends Committee continues to monitor as well as welcoming our specialty program members to a number of dedicated break-out sessions focused on their needs. The debate on current political issues between Karl Rove and David Axelrod also gave our members an insight behind the scenes of how our current and prospective leaders are looking at the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

According to AAMGA Executive Director Bernd G. Heinze, attendance surpassed expectations with additional walk-ins showing up to take part in the meeting.

“I could point to our packed Agents & Brokers Lounge or our need to bring in additional seating and tables to demonstrate the sheer volume of interest in this year’s Annual Meeting,” noted Heinze. “However, I think the ability of all our members to have access to the entire wholesale and program insurance market, and to network and conduct business with global leaders in our industry, resulting in more than $5 billion in business being written in just four days speaks for itself.”

Brian Molusis, president of Vital Insurance Partners in Glastonbury, CT, who attended the Annual Meeting last week for the first time in nearly 8 years said he was impressed.

“Eight years ago, AAMGA wasn’t catering to the specialty program marketplace. But there has been a sea-change in the association in the last two years to better adapt to the insurance market as a whole,” explained Molusis. “And because there isn’t another not-for-profit out there focusing on the needs of the specialty program market, this is a very welcome change.”

In particular, Molusis pointed to commitments from insurance carriers and other program professionals who attended the 89th Annual Meeting as a sign of good things to come.

“By next year’s [Annual Meeting], this will be one of the biggest specialty program conferences in the program space,” said Molusis.

The AAMGA’s Under Forty Organization comprised of young emerging professionals also welcomed a record number of its members to the Annual Meeting and raised more than $12,000 at the meeting to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic.

AAMGA will host its 90th Annual Meeting on May 22, 2016 at the J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort in Scottsdale, Ariz.

ABOUT AAMGA
The American Association of Managing General Agents (AAMGA) is the wholesale insurance community's international trade association. Founded in 1926, the AAMGA today represents over 500 corporate members and is respected as the leader in and voice of the wholesale and excess and surplus lines insurance industry. Membership in the AAMGA is highly selective and, therefore, the managing general agents admitted to the ranks are those who annually subscribe to a Code of Ethics and demonstrate the highest standards of excellence, experience, integrity and insurance company representation. Headquartered in suburban Philadelphia, the nonprofit Association and its University Foundation provide substantive benefits and service to its members throughout the year. Learn more at www.aamga.org.

Gioe to Lead Jimcor's Montvale Brokerage Department

MONTVALE, N.J. - Garrett Gioe has been named Brokerage Manager for Jimcor Agency, Inc.'s Montvale, NJ office. "Garret's relationships with carriers and agents, knowledge of the marketplace, and experience as a brokerage specialist made him the obvious choice for this position," explained Coryn Thalmann, COO, CEO of Jimcor. "Our goal is to continue the growth we have seen over the past few years in the brokerage arena as our agency partners continue to think of us for the larger lines and hard to place risks." Gioe has been with Jimcor since the acquisition of Zaloom Associates which brought the addition of admitted markets to the Jimcor arsenal 7 years ago.

Headquartered in Montvale, NJ, Jimcor Agency, Inc. is an Excess and Surplus Lines Wholesaler with seven offices located throughout New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, and has the ability to service other states around the country. Jimcor's goal is to provide clients with superior service and access to markets through its Online Systems, Binding Authority, Admitted Markets units or through the Brokerage Division (Jimcor Select Risk), allowing agents to successfully write more business. Garrett Gioe can be reached via email at ggioe@jimcor.com.

Brad Liggett to lead Nationwide Agribusiness

Columbus, OH - Brad Liggett has been named to lead Nationwide Agribusiness. Liggett takes over for Terrance Williams, who recently was named Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Nationwide.

"Brad's strong business acumen and ability to execute on a strategic vision have helped him drive profitable growth across multiple channels, functions and geographies at Nationwide," said Mark Berven, President and Chief Operating Officer, Nationwide Property & Casualty. "His experience and collaborative leadership style make him a great fit to lead Nationwide Agribusiness."

Liggett comes into his new role with 30 years of leadership experience across many areas of Nationwide's business-most recently serving as Independent Channel Regional Vice President for Nationwide's Western Regional Operations in Sacramento, California. During his time at Nationwide, Liggett also spent six years as the Vice President for Underwriting at Nationwide Agribusiness, where he led several key strategic initiatives, including Farm Vision, Farm Agency Certification and Farm Service Center.

Liggett is also passionate about giving back to his community. In Sacramento, he serves on the boards of United Way, where he chairs the Campaign Cabinet Committee, and the Center for Fathers and Families. Liggett is a graduate of the University of Nebraska, where he earned a bachelor's degree in finance.

About Nationwide
Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor's. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, commercial, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; banking and mortgages; pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

Mike McGuire Appointed Senior Field Representative for Berkshire Hathaway GUARD

WILKES-BARRE, PA - Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies recently added Michael McGuire as a Senior Field Representative to promote targeted growth in the Midwest. Specifically, McGuire serves producers in Iowa and Nebraska. In his new capacity, he is responsible for identifying prospects for appointments while providing information about available resources and new developments to existing members of the distribution network. He also functions as agents' field liaison with Berkshire Hathaway GUARD's underwriting, loss control, and claims staff.

McGuire has been part of the insurance industry in the region for over 15 years and has extensive experience with all lines of coverage while working with a variety of agency groups. According to Vice President of Sales Dave Simmons, "Berkshire Hathaway GUARD is anxious to increase our presence and our market share in the region. We've enjoyed considerable recent success in the Midwest, and we believe the addition of Mike McGuire to serve Iowa and Nebraska will help us further expand and develop our presence in that part of the country." Simmons added, "We have agency appointments available; as a long-term, experienced insurance field person in the area, Mike is the right person to help us fill those openings."

In October of 2012, GUARD Insurance Group was acquired by National Indemnity Company, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway - an international holding company with diverse interests that include insurance and reinsurance. In 2013, GUARD unveiled a new identity as Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies. Each of the organization's carriers (AmGUARD, EastGUARD, NorGUARD, and WestGUARD) are rated A+ ("Superior") by A.M. Best - a leading source of independent rating information on the insurance industry.

In 2014, Berkshire Hathaway GUARD wrote gross written premium of about $635 million and issued 100,000 polices. Agents interested in learning more can contact the company on-line at www.guard.com/apply.