Category Archives: Insurance

JenCap Holdings LLC to Acquire Aran Insurance Services Group, a Specialty Insurance Business

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- JenCap Holdings (JenCap), a specialty insurance business, announced today that it has agreed to acquire privately-held Aran Insurance Services Group (Aran), a specialty program administrator with offices in Arizona, Colorado, Massachusetts and New York. Founded in 2009, Aran has been led by Tim Kenny and John LaCava who have built one of the leading program administration insurance platforms in the country.

JenCap Holdings (JenCap) was formed in March 2016 by The Carlyle Group (Nasdaq: CG) and JenCap management to consolidate specialty insurance distribution businesses, including managing general agents, program managers and transactional wholesale brokers. The acquisition of Aran is the ninth transaction by JenCap since its founding, and places the company among the largest specialty insurance distribution platforms in the U.S.

"The Aran team has built a multi-faceted company with a wide variety of property and casualty programs for specialty markets as well as a strong presence in the accident and health market," said John F. Jennings, President and Chief Executive Officer of JenCap. "We are excited to help in the expansion of Aran and its subsidiary companies within JenCap."

Aran Insurance Services Group Co-Founder and Chairman, Tim Kenny stated, "Aran has a long-standing commitment to our clients, carriers, and team members, and we specifically sought out a strategic partner that shared this focus. JenCap fulfills this goal, and we are very excited about our partnership."

"Aran's strategic partnership with JenCap creates a number of opportunities for growth and development," commented John LaCava, Aran Insurance Services Group Co-Founder, President and CEO. "We look forward to expanding our programs, markets, and capabilities through JenCap's established network of carriers and agency partners."

About JenCap Holdings:

JenCap Holdings is a premier national specialty insurance distribution platform that includes managing general agencies, specialty program administrators, and transactional wholesale brokers. JenCap has assembled a management team with the sector insight and experience to drive organic growth and strategic acquisitions leveraging technology and advanced data analytics. JenCap is headquartered in New York. For more information on JenCap, visit: http://jencapholdings.com/.

About Aran Insurance Services Group:

Aran Insurance Services Group is a multi-faceted company offering diversified insurance and financial services to the United States and Canadian markets. Aran specializes in both developing and acquiring insurance underwriting facilities offering specialty insurance products and services to the property casualty and accident health markets. For more information on Aran, visit: https://www.araninsurance.com/.

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Tickers: NASDAQ:CG / NQ: CG

JenCap Holdings (JenCap), a specialty insurance business, announced today that it has agreed to acquire privately-held Aran Insurance Services Group (Aran), a specialty program administrator with offices in Arizona, Colorado, Massachusetts and New York. Founded in 2009, Aran has been led by Tim Kenny and John LaCava who have built one of the leading program administration insurance platforms in the country.

Related link: http://www.jencapholdings.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants Recognized as a 2019 ‘Best Place to Work’ in Dallas

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has been recognized by their team members in Dallas as one of the 2019 Best Places to Work in North Texas in a survey conducted annually by the Dallas Business Journal.

"We are pleased and proud to be recognized by our EPIC team members as one of the region's Best Places to Work," said KJ Wagner, Managing Principal of EPIC's operations in Dallas and across the Southwest. "Our teams have truly found a home in EPIC's people-first culture that values and promotes client service excellence, community, alignment, respect, responsibility and fun - which this award clearly reflects."

The 2019 Best Places to Work in North Texas is an annual feature in the Dallas Business Journal. Companies were judged based on an employee survey conducted earlier this year. The survey measures the satisfaction and morale of employees and the culture of the workplace, including whether it fosters engagement and creativity, and makes the workday enjoyable.

Best Place to Work recognition in North Texas continues a long-standing EPIC tradition of being recognized for workplace excellence. Since the company's founding in 2007, EPIC has been consistently recognized as a 'Best Place to Work" in multiple regions across the country, and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally on ten occasions.

EPIC encourages and supports its employees' participation in the activities of a wide range of charitable organizations, including the American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Alzheimer's Association and many other non-profit and community-service organizations, both local and national. Individual stories can be found in the Culture section of EPIC's website at https://www.epicbrokers.com/culture/#tabs

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.
EPIC now has more than 2,000 team members operating from 65 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has been recognized by their team members in Dallas as one of the 2019 Best Places to Work in North Texas in a survey conducted annually by the Dallas Business Journal.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants Acquires Trumark Insurance and Financial Services

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the acquisition of Trumark Insurance & Financial Services, a Pleasanton, CA-based Brokerage/General Agency specializing in the institutional financial advisory market.

The acquisition will bring Trumark into EPIC's growing Financial Services Practice and will complement the offerings of EPIC's Vanbridge business, which focuses on alternative asset management, corporate and individual high net worth clients, and solving risk related issues utilizing insurance and alternative capital.

"The addition of Trumark is an exciting step forward for EPIC's Financial Services business, and an excellent opportunity to mutually build on each other's success," said Peter Garvey, CEO of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants. "This transaction furthers our commitment to building our Financial Services Practice across the country, and we are delighted that the Trumark team has elected to join us on this journey."

"I'm very proud of the company we've built over the last 20 years and believe that joining EPIC is the ideal path forward," said Tim Bellig, Principal of Trumark.

Added Tom Bellig, also a Principal of Trumark, "Joining EPIC provides us with an extraordinary, complementary portfolio of products and services as well as a significant distribution opportunity."

"We are excited about what this acquisition means for our evolving Financial Services Practice," said Mitchell K. Smith, Managing Principal of Vanbridge, an EPIC company. "The addition of Trumark gives EPIC and the Vanbridge business greater depth, scale, and flexibility, allowing our team to further leverage the best-in-class solutions we continue to assemble for the benefit of our clients."

The transaction closed August 1, 2019 and terms were not disclosed.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants and Vanbridge

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 2,000 team members operating from 65 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

Vanbridge is an insurance intermediary and program management business acquired by EPIC in 2018. Vanbridge focuses on alternative asset management, corporate and individual high net worth clients; solving risk related issues utilizing insurance and alternative capital.

Vanbridge's life insurance, executive benefit and financial advisory wholesale distribution business, consults for advisors and agents around the country. This operation is headquartered in Boca Raton, FL. For additional information about Vanbridge, an EPIC company please visit https://www.vanbridge.com/ or http://www.vbiservices.com.

About Trumark

Trumark's team of advanced point-of-sale specialists, forms strategic partnerships with institutional financial advisors, broker-dealers, P&C firms, RIAs and independent advisors. They implement risk management solutions for their high net worth individual and business clients using an array of insurance products. Trumark's team provides unparalleled expertise in the areas of product evaluation, product structuring, underwriting and case management to deliver professional, ethical solutions that enhance the advisor's relationship with their client. For additional information, please visit https://trumarkfinancial.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the acquisition of Trumark Insurance & Financial Services, a Pleasanton, CA-based Brokerage/General Agency specializing in the institutional financial advisory market.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EHOP Health Hires Baker Freiberg as Vice President of Sales

RALEIGH, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- EHOP Health(R), a chronic disease reversal company headquartered in the Triangle region, is proud to announce the hire of Baker Freiberg as Vice President of Sales. A veteran of the insurance industry, Freiberg brings extensive experience working with large employers that are looking for help reducing their healthcare costs.

"Our team has developed a deep respect for Baker over the years that we have worked with him, and are thrilled to have him join us. His passion for helping employers reverse chronic disease and create healthy cultures is perfectly aligned with our mission, and his extensive relationships with the best consultants across our region help us bring much-needed assistance to employers looking for better solutions," said William (B.J.) Lawson, CEO and co-founder of the Apex-based company with clients across the southeast.

A close-knit team of healthcare professionals, Freiberg was impressed by the passion the co-founders have for addressing an unmet need in the marketplace. "I'm excited to be part of the EHOP Health team in the Triangle," said Freiberg. "Large employers are desperately seeking help in not only controlling their healthcare costs, but also in reducing them. EHOP Health brings a unique approach to the market by seeking to reverse chronic disease and keep employees out of the health system. No one else in the industry is taking such a proactive approach to fighting medical trend, and I believe employers across the country will be excited to hear our story."

Originally from New Orleans, Freiberg and his wife live in Raleigh with their newborn son. He has spent over a decade in the insurance industry, with stints at Coventry of the Carolinas, Aetna and most recently Blue Cross NC. He received both his BA and MBA from UNC Chapel Hill, and he and his wife are both lifelong Tar Heel fans. Freiberg enjoys spending time outside, particularly riding his bike around Jordan Lake and running on the local Greenway trails.

EHOP Health is headquartered in Apex, NC and has clients across the southeast. The company anticipates rapid growth across the region as they scale operations. Those interested in joining the EHOP Health team may visit https://www.ehophealth.com/
for further information.

About EHOP Health:

EHOP Health helps employees reverse chronic disease and feel their best. It's flagship program, Journey 2 Health, offers personalized health coaching services and a science-based online curriculum. Clients lower healthcare costs while investing into their people and culture throughout the chronic disease reversal program.

Although the majority of Americans suffer from at least one chronic disease, conditions such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and obesity can be reversible. Co-founders William (B.J.) Lawson, MD and Joe Jenkins, MD JD launched EHOP Health and the Journey 2 Health solution in 2016 after building a program and team to focus on disease reversal rather than disease management and compliance.

For more information about EHOP Health, visit https://www.ehophealth.com/.

Follow the company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ehop-health/.

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EHOP Health(R), a chronic disease reversal company headquartered in the Triangle region, is proud to announce the hire of Baker Freiberg as Vice President of Sales. A veteran of the insurance industry, Freiberg brings extensive experience working with large employers that are looking for help reducing their healthcare costs.

Related link: https://www.ehophealth.com/

EPIC adds Surety Specialists Eric Feighl and John Hohlt in Houston Texas

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Eric Feighl has joined the firm as a Principal and Southwest Region Surety Practice Leader.

He is joined by Principal and Client Advocate John Hohlt. Both will specialize in providing surety and bonding solutions for the firm's property & casualty and risk management clients across a range of industries, with a particular emphasis on clients in the Energy and Construction sectors.

Based in EPIC's Houston, Texas office, Feighl and Hohlt will report to KJ Wagner, EPIC Managing Principal and Director of the Southwest Region.

Both join EPIC from Marsh Wortham in Houston, where Feighl spent more than 20 years as a Managing Principal and a Surety Bond and Executive Liability Broker. Hohlt spent the past four years serving clients as a Surety Bond Producer/Broker and he began his insurance industry career building a strong technical foundation as a Surety Program Underwriter.

Feighl and Hohlt have extensive knowledge of both contract and commercial surety underwriting obligations and requirements. With a strong knowledge of Bureau of Ocean Energy Management regulations, they have helped numerous clients with their complex offshore surety bonding needs.

Feighl attended the University of Mississippi, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and a minor in Business.

Hohlt attended Fordham University in New York, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and playing varsity football.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our operations in the Southwest with the additions of Eric and John, said KJ Wagner. Both are well-respected, creative, highly consultative surety specialists who will deliver great value to our clients and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have Eric and John join our growing EPIC team."

Eric Feighl can be reached at eric.feighl@epicbrokers.com or (713) 557-9830.

John Hohlt can be reached at john.hohlt@epicbrokers.com or (949) 417-9109.

About EPIC

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

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EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Eric Feighl has joined the firm as a Principal and Southwest Region Surety Practice Leader.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers Further Expands Southwest Operations into Arizona

PHOENIX, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the expansion of their operations in the Southwest with the hiring of Client Manager Luke Aschermann, Property & Casualty Claims Manager Norma Brehm, and Principal/Senior Client Advocate Belinda Lopes. All join EPIC from Willis Towers Watson.

The new EPIC Phoenix team forms the firm's foundation in yet another key regional market, under the leadership of KJ Wagner, EPIC Managing Principal and Director of the Southwest Region, where they will focus on the needs of both middle market, and large, complex accounts.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Southwest operations into Arizona with the additions of Luke, Norma, and Belinda," said KJ Wagner. "They are all well respected industry professionals who will provide a strong foundation as we rapidly build our EPIC presence in this important market. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements!"

In the Southwest, EPIC now has offices in Austin, TX; Dallas, TX; Houston, TX; and Phoenix, AZ in addition to nearly 80 other locations across the country.

Luke Aschermann can be reached at luke.aschermann@epicbrokers.com or 602-622-0360

Norma Brehm can be reached at norma.brehm@epicbrokers.com or 469-270-6773

Belinda Lopes can be reached at Belinda.lopes@epicbrokers.com or 623-826-0161

About EPIC

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the expansion of their operations in the Southwest with the hiring of Client Manager Luke Aschermann, Property & Casualty Claims Manager Norma Brehm, and Principal/Senior Client Advocate Belinda Lopes. All join EPIC from Willis Towers Watson.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Do I Need Travel Insurance for the 2019 Hurricane Season? TravelInsurance.com Provides Answers

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- With Tropical Storm Barry expected to become the first named hurricane of 2019, thus begins the storm season that will likely impact hundreds of thousands of travelers, according to TravelInsurance.com. The question many travelers have is "Will my travel plans be affected, and if so, how can I make sure I don't lose the hard-earned money I've invested in this vacation?"

In the hopes of demystifying travel insurance as it relates to tropical storms, TravelInsurance.com answers the most common questions related to travel during hurricane season:

Do I really need to purchase travel insurance just in case there is a hurricane?
Hurricanes, along with other types of storms and unpredictable weather, can and do frequently derail travel plans. If you are traveling from, or headed to, an area that is prone to hurricanes, purchasing travel insurance is a wise move if you want to protect your investment.

Will travel insurance cover me if my flight is delayed or cancelled in the event of a hurricane?
Yes. Trip cancellation coverage provides travelers reimbursement for their insured trip costs if they have to cancel prior to their departure date due to a covered reason. Most trip cancellation plans include coverage for unexpected natural disasters such as hurricanes if the event causes either an extended shutdown in carrier services or render the destination uninhabitable. Some travel insurance plans will even cover official hurricane warnings by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the agency that tracks and forecasts tropical storms and hurricanes.

Will travel insurance cover me if my trip is interrupted by a hurricane?
Yes. Trip interruption coverage will reimburse the unused, non-refundable portions of a trip if a traveler has to cancel and abandon a trip after it's already started. The covered reasons in a travel insurance plan for trip interruption are usually the same as the covered reasons for trip cancellation. Some plans will offer a coverage limit for trip interruption that's more than the amount insured under trip cancellation in order to account for any extra expenses incurred to get home early.

What if my destination is damaged during a storm, but it happens before I leave?
If your destination is made uninhabitable by a hurricane or other natural disaster, trip cancellation will provide coverage.

What if I am affected by a storm, but it does not turn into a named hurricane?
Any severe weather that prevents you from traveling to your destination or affects your ability to stay at your destination will likely be covered under the Trip Delay or Trip Cancellation benefits. This includes severe tropical or winter storms. But again, if the tropical or winter storm is named, it is no longer possible to purchase insurance to protect against it.

What if I am concerned about a storm, but the airline or cruise company has not cancelled service - can I get reimbursed if I decide to cancel?
This depends on the type of insurance you purchase and what your plan includes. For example, some plans offer trip cancellation coverage for hurricane warnings at your destination issued by NOAA, if the insurance is purchased before the storm is named. The other option is to purchase a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade, which allows the insured to cancel their trip for any reason. CFAR is typically only available as an option at the time the policy is purchased and requires the traveler to insure 100% of their pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs. And importantly, the traveler must purchase the policy within a set number of days (usually 7-21 days) of their initial trip payment date. With CFAR, either 50% or 75% of the trip costs will be reimbursed, depending on the plan selected.

When should I purchase travel insurance and how soon is it effective?
While a policy can be purchased up until the day before you depart, it's best to purchase travel insurance soon after making the first payment towards the trip. And most importantly the travel insurance should be purchased before a disruptive event happens. Some benefits and coverages are available only if you've purchased your policy within a short window, which typically ranges from 7-21 days from the date you make your initial payment. Time-sensitive benefits include CFAR and a Pre-existing Condition Exclusion Waiver. Travel insurance plans become effective on the day immediately after you purchase it.

How much does travel insurance cost?
There are several factors that go into the cost of an insurance plan, but typically travel insurance plans cost between 4% and 10% of the total trip costs. The biggest factors that affect the policy price are the age of travelers and the amount of trip costs.

"The most important thing to remember is to buy your travel insurance early and before a storm is named," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Especially during the annual hurricane season from June to November, we recommend purchasing travel insurance immediately after making the first purchase toward your trip to make sure you are covered when that unexpected snafu happens."

For more information and travel tips, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:
TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings, LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

With Tropical Storm Barry expected to become the first named hurricane of 2019, thus begins the storm season that will likely impact hundreds of thousands of travelers, according to TravelInsurance.com. The question many travelers have is "Will my travel plans be affected, and if so, how can I make sure I don't lose the hard-earned money I've invested in this vacation?"

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

EPIC adds Benefits Consultant Dennis Park in Irvine CA

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Dennis Park has joined the firm as Vice President, Employee Benefits.

Dennis will be based in EPIC's Irvine, Calif. office and report to Managing Principal Tony D'Asaro and Tiffany McClellen, Regional Director, Employee Benefits.

He will have responsibility for new business development and for of the design, implementation, and management of Employee Benefits programs, focusing on the needs of middle-market companies across a wide range of business and industry, including manufacturing, healthcare and technology.

Dennis joins EPIC from OneDigital Health and Benefits in Irvine, Calif., where he spent the past 8 years as an Employee Benefits Consultant. He spent the first 18 years of his career with the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, where he specialized in developing and managing financial security strategies; corporate life insurance, disability insurance, retirement planning and employee benefits.

He attended the University of California, Irvine, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Employee Benefits Consulting operations in Southern California with Dennis's addition," said Jim Gillette, President of EPIC's Pacific South Region. "He is a well-respected, highly consultative employee benefits professional who will deliver great value to our clients and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have Dennis join our EPIC team."

Dennis Park can be reached at dennis.park@epicbrokers.com or (949) 417-9109.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Dennis Park has joined the firm as Vice President, Employee Benefits.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC adds Awareness and Communications Professionals Jon Williams, TJ Rosenberg and Dale Smith

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the hiring of Jon Williams, TJ Rosenberg, and Dale Smith to lead the Awareness & Communications Practice as Managing Directors within EPIC Risk Consulting.

Williams, Rosenberg and Smith all join EPIC from Protiviti, where they had similar client consulting responsibilities and worked together closely. Their clients included global organizations in the Retail, Distribution, Finance, Technology, Manufacturing, and Service industries.

At EPIC, the team will provide EPIC Risk Consulting clients with a wide range of awareness training and employee communication programs that will also help enhance the team's asset protection consulting and managed services, including audit programs already in place. Their expertise includes areas such as Workplace Safety, Asset Protection, IT Security, AML and Regulatory Compliance requirements; how to use enterprise applications such as SAP and SharePoint; Ethics and Code of Conduct; and many others.

Said Maurice Edwards, Managing Principal of EPIC Risk Consulting, "We are thrilled to further expand and strengthen our EPIC Risk Consulting capabilities with the additions of Jon, TJ and Dale. All are experienced, knowledgeable, and highly respected awareness & communications professionals who will deliver significant value to our clients and their employees, and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have them join our growing team."

Jon Williams can be reached at jon.williams@epicbrokers.com or 312-543-6427.

TJ Rosenberg can be reached at tj.rosenberg@epicbrokers.com or 226-789-2240.

Dale Smith can be reached at dale.smith@epicbrokers.com or 226-338-5474.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit: https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the hiring of Jon Williams, TJ Rosenberg, and Dale Smith to lead the Awareness & Communications Practice as Managing Directors within EPIC Risk Consulting.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Healthcare Coverage Savings and Benefits Now Offered to American Gem Society Members

LAS VEGAS, Nev. /ScoopCloud/ -- The American Gem Society (AGS) is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with MJM Global Insurance Brokerage Group, which will offer access to healthcare coverage to the Society's membership, for those wishing to participate.

JewelersHealthCare.com, a division of MJM uses the collective purchasing power of the AGS membership to reduce healthcare premiums, while maintaining flexibility in plan design and provider. This benefit enables members to take control of their true healthcare costs. Bundled with the coverage is Prosper Benefits, a non-insurance telephonic product including TeleHealth(TM) and HealthAdvocate(TM).

AGS members are able to shop online for their preferred deductible, provider network, effective date, and receive immediate price savings when compared to other plans in the marketplace.

"The American Gem Society has heard from many of its members about the rising cost of healthcare coverage and the lack of options or control. JewelersHealthCare.com is providing what we feel is a great solution," said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of the American Gem Society and AGS Laboratories.

"Ninety-seven percent of Americans do not know what their insurance covers, and the process of shopping for and enrolling in coverage remains a significant burden to employers and employees," says MJM Global Insurance Vice President, Richard Reiman. "This partnership between the American Gem Society and MJM Global offers a solution to jewelry companies looking for access to competitive insurance rates."

Visit http://jewelershealthcare.com/ to learn more about their products and services. To learn more about the American Gem Society, and how to become a member, visit https://www.americangemsociety.org/.

About the American Gem Society:

The American Gem Society, founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to promoting a high standard of ethics, continuous education, and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. The American Gem Society awards credentials for its members, who are held to the highest ethical and professional standards in the industry and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their titles. Less than one in twenty jewelers in the country have chosen to meet the exacting standards necessary for membership.

About MJM Global Insurance Brokerage Group:

MJM Global Insurance Brokerage Group (MJM) is rich in family tradition, spanning three generations and over seventy years of providing reliable insurance for all types of commercial and personal risk to the jewelry industry. They are a proud member of the Independent Insurance Agents of America (IIAA) and the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA), MJM serves the needs of more than 3,000 businesses, professionals and households throughout the United States and abroad. Visit https://mjmglobal.com for more information.

AGS Website: https://www.americangemsociety.org/

Facebook: @AmericanGemSociety1934
Instagram: @AmericanGemSociety
Twitter: @AmerGemSociety

The American Gem Society (AGS) is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with MJM Global Insurance Brokerage Group, which will offer access to healthcare coverage to the Society's membership, for those wishing to participate.

Related link: https://www.americangemsociety.org/

EPIC adds New Benefits Consulting Team in Houston TX

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the hiring of Principal Ed Oravetz, Principal Keith McNeely, Principal David Potts, Client Executive Elisha Johnson and Client Manager Marilu Alejandre.

This group of seasoned employee benefits consulting professionals joins EPIC from Marsh & McLennan Agency - Southwest in Houston where they worked together for more than 3 years.

Oravetz, McNeely, Potts, Johnson and Alejandre will share responsibility for new business development and for of the design, implementation, servicing, and management of Employee Benefits Programs, focusing on the needs of middle-market companies across a wide range of business and industry.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Employee Benefits Consulting operations in the Southwest Region with the additions of Ed, Keith, David, Elisha and Marilu," said KJ Wagner. "They are well respected industry professionals who will add tremendous value to our clients and to other EPIC team members. I could not be more excited to have them on our team."

Ed Oravetz can be reached at ed.oravetz@epicbrokers.com or 281-687-8635.

Keith McNeely can be reached at keith.mcneely@epicbrokers.com or 281-787-1269.

David Potts can be reached at david.potts@epicbrokers.com or 281-678-4544.

Elisha Johnson can be reached at Elisha.johanson@epicbrokers.com or 281-797-8727.

Marilu Alejandre can be reached at marilu.alejandre@epicbrokers.com or 832-499.3067.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today the hiring of Principal Ed Oravetz, Principal Keith McNeely, Principal David Potts, Client Executive Elisha Johnson and Client Manager Marilu Alejandre.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Mary Grandy of EPIC Receives 2019 Joe Quigley Memorial Award

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that EPIC Sacramento-based Vice President of Property & Casualty, Mary Grandy, was the 2019 recipient of the Joe Quigley Memorial Award, conferred annually by the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). The award was presented to Grandy during the CFMA's Annual Conference and Exhibition in Las Vegas on June 1-5.

In 1999, CFMA's Executive Committee unanimously approved the creation of the Joe Quigley Memorial Award in memory of former national president and the founding member of the Valley of the Sun Chapter, Joe Quigley. Joe's commitment to local chapter activities, and CFMA in general, epitomizes the dedication and commitment of CFMA volunteers.

This Memorial Award recognizes outstanding chapter participation and activity. It is given each year to that CFMA General or Associate Member who exemplifies the following:
* Enthusiasm in the promotion of CFMA at the local chapter level
* Contribution at the local chapter level (including participation in CFMA functions and committees)
* Activities that support CFMA's Mission and Strategic Goals
* Consideration for, and service to, fellow CFMA members and the local community
* Significant years of contributions to CFMA.

Click here for additional details, including a list of past winners: http://www.cfma.org/membership/content.cfm?ItemNumber=1095.

Said Curt Perata, EPIC's Pacific Region President, "Mary has an amazing effect on her communities. Whether it is her local community, the insurance community, or the construction community, she works tirelessly for all of them. The recipients of these efforts are not the only ones who are better off because of Mary's involvement. Anyone who has worked alongside her in any capacity has benefited from her expertise and her caring, giving spirit, including myself. All of us at EPIC are very pleased and proud to see Mary being further recognized by CFMA in this way."

About EPIC

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0610s2p-EPIC-at-CFMA-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Joe Quigley Memorial Award presented to Mary Grandy during the CFMA's Annual Conference and Exhibition.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that EPIC Sacramento-based Vice President of Property & Casualty, Mary Grandy, was the 2019 recipient of the Joe Quigley Memorial Award, conferred annually by the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA).

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Kevin Ach of EPIC to Moderate Executive Afternoon Session on Loss Prevention and Asset Protection at NRF Protect

ANAHEIM, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Kevin Ach, Vice President of Risk Assurance for EPIC's Integrated Risk Solutions Practice will moderate the Executive Afternoon session on loss prevention at the National Retail Foundation's "NRF Protect" Conference, being held on Tuesday, June 11 at Noon at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif.

Specifically designed for senior level loss prevention and asset protection professionals, Executive Afternoon offers interactive discussion, expert insights and takeaways, and exclusive peer-to-peer networking. The exclusive "invitation only" program considers topics that help keep pace with the rapidly changing expectations and challenges currently facing Retail and Restaurant Industry executive leaders and loss prevention/risk management professionals.

Ach will moderate and manage a series of roundtable discussions on key loss prevention and asset protection topics among the attendees, following presentations by Michael Downing, Chief Security Officer, Former Deputy Chief LAPD, Oak View Group/Prevent Advisors; Dan Hughes, VP, Security and Emergency Services, Disneyland Resort; and Banyon Hutter, Senior Vice President, Security, Caruso.

About NRF Protect:

NRF Protect is the largest retail and restaurant loss prevention event in North America. LP professionals gather annually to equip themselves with valuable industry knowledge, techniques and the latest technologies so they can tackle their biggest loss prevention challenges.

With two and half days of educational sessions, networking opportunities and an extensive EXPO Hall, attendees will leave feeling informed and confident in their ability to protect the people, assets and brands they serve. More about the event can be found at https://nrfprotect.nrf.com/

About Kevin Ach, Vice President, Risk Assurance, EPIC Integrated Risk Solutions:

Kevin Ach is a global leader in the loss prevention industry with over 18 years of experience in retail operations, supply chain, internal audit and international operations. As the Vice President, Risk Assurance for EPIC Integrated Risk Solutions, Ach assists organizations in risk mitigation, process improvements and operational efficiencies in the areas of Risk Management, Cybersecurity, Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity, Internal Audit and Loss Prevention.

Prior to joining EPIC, Ach was the senior director of retail loss prevention and safety for Office Depot Inc., overseeing loss prevention and safety activities for over 1,500 retail stores. Ach has also held varying management positions in supply chain, international retail operations, B2B and internal audit during his career. Prior to joining Office Depot, Ach worked for Arthur Andersen as an Information Systems consultant in Houston, Texas.

Ach has been actively engaged in the loss prevention industry as a speaker on numerous occasions at National Retail Federation conferences. He has also been an active member of the Loss Prevention Research Council and was a key player in the creation of an industry mentoring program for loss prevention practitioners.

Ach earned his B.S. degree in Systems Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point and proudly served our country for four years as an Officer in the US Army's Signal Corps branch. Ach is a Board Member of the West Point Society of the Palm Beaches. He holds the LPC certification through the Loss Prevention Foundation. Ach currently resides in Boynton Beach, Fla. with his wife and four children.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/ .

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Kevin Ach, Vice President of Risk Assurance for EPIC's Integrated Risk Solutions Practice will moderate the Executive Afternoon session on loss prevention at the National Retail Foundation's "NRF Protect" Conference, June 11 in Anaheim, Calif.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Showbiz Shows a Better Way to Pay: Insurance Industry Alert issued by EraNova Institute

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today the EraNova Institute issues a business alert: "Showbiz shows a better way to pay." EraNova's Director and author of the report, Dick Samson, says, "For non-employees in entertainment and insurance, getting the money due you has often been a chore. Now, for the likes of Tom Hanks and Lady Gaga, it's more of a breeze; and soon may be for everyone involved in insurance."

For decades complexity has been a sore spot in both industries, according to the alert. Then in 2011, Mike Hurst and Jason Hiller established Exactuals, LLC in Los Angeles.

Focusing initially on entertainment, their objectives were clear. "We wanted to get rid of the millions of tiny payment checks," says Hurst. "So we built a model to accomplish that and more, saving studios, unions and other entertainment entities a tremendous amount of time and money."

Hurst and Hiller also attacked the issue of fair compensation. "Musicians and composers were losing about $2 billion per year in unpaid royalties," says Hurst. "This was due to irregularities such as confused coding embedded in digital media."

Their solution was PaymentHub, an automated software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform. "It's designed to help large enterprises pay thousands of non-employees who are compensated through multiple means such as commissions, royalties, and residuals," says Hiller.

Exactuals soon acquired other technical assets such as R.AI (Royalty Artificial Intelligence), which uses machine learning to track songwriting information and rights.

Then the company went through growth pains that can now profit the insurance industry:
* Raised $20.6 million.
* Used the money for development, trials, and deployment with film and TV studios, unions, music labels, publishers, and payroll companies.
* Secured large industry players like SAG-AFTRA, the union representing film and TV actors and other showbiz professionals worldwide.
* Delivered new efficiency. For example, all of SAG-AFTRA's 160,000 members can now have their residuals deposited directly into their bank accounts.
* Increased visibility and trust by making statements accessible online.

Implications for Insurance

According to an insurance executive who is evaluating payment technology, "Our industry is only marginally better off than entertainment before Exactuals. There are fewer paper checks than there used to be, and some carriers consider themselves technically advanced. But it's a hodgepodge. There's a lack of standardization and grey areas where information gets sidetracked."

"The entertainment industry is living proof that a fully-functional, high-tech digital system really works," the executive continues. "It has the potential to supercharge all complex payments in our $5 trillion industry."

Two steps toward insurance deployment

STEP 1: In August 2018, Exactuals was acquired by RBC's US banking arm, City National Bank, long known as "the bank to the stars." City National provides Exactuals with deep pockets for expansion and potential customers in all industries (including insurance).

STEP2: In September 2018, Exactuals hired finance and insurance veteran Andrew Mauritzen as CFO. According to a company statement, "Mauritzen will now spearhead entry into the insurance market, adapting Exactuals' best-in-class payment and royalty technology to streamline insurance commissions, refunds, and claims payments while establishing partnerships with insurance carriers and brokerages."

Alternatives?

There are many "fintech" and "insurtech" suppliers but no known competitors offering the breadth and depth of Exactuals' payment services for large organizations.

In specialized niches, however, big change appears afoot, Samson reports. In May, 2019, JP Morgan announced acquiring health-care payments firm InstaMed, which automates medical billing in the $3.5 trillion U.S. health-care market. "This deal shows that banks view the fast-changing world of payments as a space they need to be active in."

The full report is available at: https://medium.com/eranova-institute/insurance-industry-alert-showbiz-shows-a-better-way-to-pay-ff1b40f47447

About EraNova Institute:

The EraNova Institute is a small think tank with a big mission: helping selected changemakers implement their solutions faster, ushering in an advanced, sustainable future. Learn more at: https://medium.com/eranova-institute.

Learn more about Exactuals LLC at: https://www.exactuals.com/#home-intro.

Twitter: @Exactuals #EraNovaInstitute #RoyaltyAI #fintech #InsuranceTech #Insurtech

Today the EraNova Institute issued a business alert: "Showbiz shows a better way to pay." EraNova's Director and author of the report, Dick Samson, says, "For non-employees in entertainment and insurance, getting the money due you has often been a chore. Now, for the likes of Tom Hanks and Lady Gaga, it's more of a breeze; and soon may be for everyone involved in insurance."

Related link: https://medium.com/eranova-institute

Kraft Technology Group Achieves HIPAA Compliance with Compliancy Group

NASHVILLE, Tenn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Kraft Technology Group, a Nashville-based managed IT service provider, is pleased to announce that we have achieved compliance with the federally mandated standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) through the use of Compliancy Group's proprietary HIPAA methodology, The Guard(R) compliance tracking software, and HIPAA Seal of Compliance(R).

As a managed service provider serving healthcare clients, Kraft Technology Group is a "Business Associate" under the definition of HIPAA (45 CFR §160.103) and therefore subject to HIPAA regulations designed to protect electronic protected health information while supporting our "Covered Entity" clients.

Kraft Technology Group has completed Compliancy Group's Six Stage Implementation Program, adhering to the necessary regulatory standards outlined in the HIPAA Privacy Rule, HIPAA Security Rule, HIPAA Breach Notification Rule, HIPAA Omnibus Rule, and HITECH. These standards have been heavily vetted against the letter of the law and meet federal NIST requirements. Kraft Technology Group's good faith effort toward HIPAA compliance through the use of The Guard has been verified by the HIPAA subject matter experts and Compliance Coaches(R) at Compliancy Group.

A recent HIPAA Journal article, "The Top HIPAA Threats Are Likely Not What You Think," made the point that the top cybersecurity threats are employees. The article refers to an IBM X-Force Threat Intelligence Report which points to this surprising statistic: 71 percent of recorded data breaches in the healthcare industry are attributable to employee actions. Whether those employees are working for a Covered Entity or a Business Associate, the Health & Human Services enforcement of HIPAA regulations can be severe.

The important intersection between HIPAA compliance and data security is often lost on I.T. providers working in the health care space. Clients are becoming more aware of the requirements of HIPAA compliance - and forward-thinking providers like Kraft Technology Group choose the HIPAA Seal of Compliance to differentiate their services.

The HIPAA Seal of Compliance is issued to organizations that have implemented an effective HIPAA compliance program through the use of The Guard, Compliancy Group's proprietary compliance tracking solution.

About Compliancy Group:
Compliancy Group simplifies HIPAA compliance so that health care professionals can confidently run their practice. The Guard(TM) is our simple, cost-effective, web-based solution. Users are guided by our team of expert Compliance Coaches(TM) to Achieve, Illustrate, and Maintain(TM) total HIPAA compliance.

Visit https://www.compliancy-group.com or call 855.854.4722 to learn how simple compliance can be.

About Kraft Technology Group:
Part of the KraftCPAs family of companies since 1992, Kraft Technology Group has been providing Computer Services, I.T. Security, Network Support, and Managed I.T. Services in the greater Nashville Tennessee area and beyond. Our mission is to empower small and midsize businesses to efficiently and securely utilize best of breed technology, so they can focus on reaching and exceeding their strategic goals.

Visit https://www.kraftgrp.com/healthcare-compliant-it-services/ to learn more.

Verify our Seal of Compliance at: https://compliancy-group.com/hipaa-compliance-verification/

Kraft Technology Group, a Nashville-based managed IT service provider, is pleased to announce that we have achieved compliance with the federally mandated standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) through the use of Compliancy Group's proprietary HIPAA methodology, The Guard(R) compliance tracking software, and HIPAA Seal of Compliance(R).

Related link: https://www.kraftgrp.com/

Paragon Strengthens Winery and Brewery Programs with the Promotion of Brendan Wright and addition of Nick Faragasso

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC ("Paragon"), a national multi-line specialty MGA (Managing General Agency) based in Avon, Conn., today announced the addition of insurance professional Nick Faragasso and the promotion of Brendan Wright.

Faragasso will be based in Sacramento, Calif. and Wright, who has been a key part of Paragon's wine team for the past 5 years, will remain in San Francisco. Both report to Paragon Regional President, Erik Kriens.

Faragasso joins as Vice President, bringing over 20 years of underwriting experience and expertise to Paragon. He will work across the WineryPlus and BreweryPlus programs. Faragasso has served as an underwriter to the wine industry for the past three decades and will add significant depth, experience and knowledge to the Paragon Winery team, in particular.

Wright is broadening his role and responsibilities as Program Manager of Paragon's Winery Programs. Paragon underwrites and manages insurance programs serving over 700 wineries across the nation and Wright will continue to bring his unique and valuable skill set to these clients and the retail brokers who serve them. Wright has over 10 years of industry experience, with the past 5 at Paragon focused on the wine industry from an underwriting perspective.

Said Paragon's Erik Kriens, "We have known and respected Nick for many years and we are excited to add another top professional to the Paragon team. Brendan has been an outstanding performer and we are pleased and excited to recognize this with his promotion to Program Manager. Both Nick and Brendan have tremendous skill sets that are of significant value to our clients, insurance company partners, and other stakeholders."

About Paragon:

A broadly diversified MGA, Paragon provides unique opportunities and solutions to retail agents, insurance carriers, reinsurers and vendor partners. Please visit https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/ for additional information.

Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC ("Paragon"), a national multi-line specialty MGA (Managing General Agency) based in Avon, Conn., today announced the addition of insurance professional Nick Faragasso and the promotion of Brendan Wright.

Related link: https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/

Hurricane Season 2019 Kicks Off Earlier Than Expected: 5 Tips for Finding the Right Travel Insurance Plan

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Atlantic Hurricane Season got off to an early start this year, with Subtropical Storm Andrea forming on May 20, marking the record fifth year in a row that the hurricane season arrived early. This, along with experts predicting an above average hurricane season, means that travelers could be facing an uphill battle, according to TravelInsurance.com, a leading online comparison site.

"Mother Nature may be unpredictable, but the Atlantic Hurricane season has consistently produced six or more hurricanes over the last few years, of which two to three are considered major hurricanes," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "During this time of the year, travel insurance is an important consideration to help protect against losses from cancellations and delays, and it's never too early to purchase and plan for upcoming travel."

To assist travelers navigating the many ways travel insurance can protect them this hurricane season, TravelInsurance.com has put together a list of the top things to keep in mind:

Purchase Before a Storm is Named. Once a storm is named, it's too late to purchase travel insurance. Since travel insurance is designed to cover unknown events, the date when a storm is first identified by the National Weather Service or the National Hurricane Center usually marks the date the storm becomes a "known risk." Beginning on that date, travel insurance will no longer be available to purchase to cover losses from that particular storm, unless you purchase a plan with optional Cancel For Any Reason coverage, which must be purchased within a set amount of days from your initial trip payment along with insuring 100 percent of your pre-paid and non-refundable trip costs

- Insider Tip: Purchase travel insurance early to lock in your coverage and provide coverage against future storms. Follow a storm tracking service such as the National Hurricane Center (Twitter: @NWSNHC) to stay on top of the weather.

Look for Hurricane-specific Coverage. Almost all Trip Cancellation plans provide trip cancellation, trip interruption, and trip delay coverage due to severe weather causing either a shut-down in services or preventing you from getting to your destination. In addition to coverage due to severe weather, many plans provide coverage terms that are specifically relevant to hurricanes.

- Insider Tip: Travel insurance terms can vary by plan and insurance carrier. By using a comparison site like TravelInsurance.com, you can quickly compare those differences and find a plan that is best for your unique circumstances. For hurricane-related coverage, look for the following covered reasons under a plan's Trip Cancellation coverage: (a) inclement weather; (b) accommodations if your destination becomes uninhabitable; (c) mandatory evacuation at your destination; and, (d) National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) hurricane warning at your destination.

You Can Be Covered if a Hurricane Damages Your Destination Prior to Your Arrival. If a hurricane severely damages your hotel or vacation rental close to your trip dates, Trip Cancellation coverage will likely apply if the damage is significant. Your accommodations have to be made uninhabitable by the hurricane and it has to occur within 14-30 days of your travel dates.

- Insider Tip: Look in the plan's Description of Coverage for the keyword "uninhabitable." The general rule is that the damage has to cause an immediate safety risk. If it's just damage to the pool or tennis courts, as inconvenient as that may be, trip cancellation coverage won't apply.

Evacuation at Destination Must Be Official. If local government authorities at your destination order a mandatory evacuation you, likely have coverage under Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption.

- Insider Tip: The key considerations are that the evacuation order must be an official order and it must be mandatory. A recommendation by a local newscaster isn't sufficient to cancel under this coverage.

A NOAA Hurricane Warning May Be Enough. If you are within 48 hours of your trip departure date and NOAA issues a hurricane warning at your destination, you may have trip cancellation coverage. It's important to note that your cancellation under this covered reason must occur more than 14 days from your effective date (15 days from your purchase date).

- Insider Tip: This covered reason is less common than the other covered reasons listed above. Look for the Worldwide Trip Protector Plan or Worldwide Trip Protector Plus Plan for this coverage.

For more information and travel tips, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:
TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings, LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season got off to an early start this year, with Subtropical Storm Andrea forming on May 20, marking the record fifth year in a row that the hurricane season arrived early. This, along with experts predicting an above average hurricane season, means that travelers could be facing an uphill battle, according to TravelInsurance.com, a leading online comparison site.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

After, Inc. Announces Publication of ‘First of its Kind’ Study of Millennials and Extended Service Plans (ESPs)

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- In December 2018, After, Inc. launched its "Millennials and Extended Service Plans" study, to investigate the attitudes and behavior of Millennials regarding manufacturers' product warranties and Extended Service Plans (ESPs).

The After, Inc. study surveyed 500 Millennials age 22-37 who had purchased new products in the last six months across five categories: smartphones, tablets, laptops/desktops, printers and digital cameras. Participants were segmented by gender, household income, personal vs. business usage, where they bought the products, and whether or not they purchased an Extended Service Plan.

Some key findings of the After, Inc. study include:

1. ESP attach rates were higher among men, higher income households (except smartphones where income is not a factor) and business vs. personal users.
2. The highest ESP attach rate was with digital and video cameras (76%). Less than half of Millennials purchased ESPs in the other categories.
3. The higher the device cost, the higher the ESP attach rate.
4. Millennials want to learn about ESP benefits and cost before or at time of purchase.
5. The primary reasons Millennials purchase ESPs is "to extend product life", "peace of mind" and "high repair/replacement cost".
6. Reasons for not purchasing include "manufacturer warranty is enough" and "not a good value".
7. Millennials are highly influenced by reviews from customers and friends.

Based on their research, After, Inc. has three recommendations for ESP providers:

1. Consider offering multiple ESP plans: a) less coverage for a lower price, which may encourage more price elastic Millennial buyers, and b) separate plans for personal vs. business, with lighter personal coverage and more robust small business coverage.
2. Highlight your ESP offerings and benefits on your website so Millennials can conduct research before they purchase.
3. Encourage product reviews on the Internet - incorporate into your ESP solutions page, social media, Amazon website, or other retailers' websites. Make sure to monitor reviews and respond to create a two-way dialogue.

To request a complete copy of the study results, contact Dan Hulkower, SVP Business Development, After, Inc. at dhulkower@afterinc.com.

Find additional insights on the After, Inc. blog: http://afterinc.com/news-archive/.

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. ( http://www.afterinc.com/ ) is a global leader in the warranty services industry. Its predictive analytics, data-driven marketing strategies, reporting and program administration are second to none.

After, Inc. has partnered with some of the world's top brands to help transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue / profit opportunities.

Headquartered in Norwalk, Conn. with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of the EPIC Holdings family of companies, which also includes EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants and PowerGuard Specialty Insurance Services.

In December 2018, After, Inc. launched its "Millennials and Extended Service Plans" study, to investigate the attitudes and behavior of Millennials regarding manufacturers' product warranties and Extended Service Plans (ESPs).

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

ACEC Business Insurance Trust and Greyling/EPIC Announce New Trustee Appointment

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Business Insurance Trust (BIT) and Greyling/EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants announced today that Paul Boyce, P.E., PG, has been appointed a Trustee for the ACEC Business Insurance Trust.

Paul Boyce, President and CEO of P.W. Grosser Consulting, Inc., has been associated with Bohemia, NY-based P.W. Grosser Consulting, Inc. (PWGC), an environmental engineering and consulting firm with more than 60 employees, for the past 26 years. Mr. Boyce, who is a third-generation engineer, earned a BS in Civil Engineering from SUNY Buffalo and an MS in Environmental Engineering from Polytechnic University.

He is a licensed professional engineer in the states of New York - where he is also a professional geologist - and Pennsylvania. Over the span of his career, Mr. Boyce has dedicated himself to the engineering profession by volunteering his time and energy to strengthen and grow PWGC and advancing the industry. In 2018, Mr. Boyce was named "Engineer of the Year" by the New York State Society of Professional Engineers Long Island Chapter for his contributions to the engineering profession.

Mr. Boyce's ACEC experience includes having served as treasurer, secretary, vice chair and chair of ACEC-NY's Long Island Region. He currently serves as regional board member. At the state level, he has served on ACEC-NY's Board of Directors, as chair of the membership committee. Currently, he is on the membership and standards of practice committees. Mr. Boyce is also affiliated with the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Water Works Association, Long Island Professional Geologists Association, National Groundwater Association and New York State Society of Professional Engineers.

The ACEC BIT is responsible for providing quality business insurance responsive to engineering firms' unique needs, delivering exceptional service to ACEC members, and offering valuable and relevant member benefits. The Trustees strive to meet and exceed member firm's expectations and are committed to helping the Program keep pace with changes in the profession.

For additional information regarding the ACEC BIT Program, please contact Jeff Connelly at Greyling/EPIC (833-223-2248 or jeff.connelly@greyling.com) or any of the following BIT Trustees:

Robin S. Greenleaf, P.E., LEED AP, F.ACEC
Phone: 617.542.0810
Email: rgreenleaf@arcengrs.com

Robert A. Overfield, P.E.
Phone: 307.587.4911
Email: robertov@eaengineers.com

Michael D. Klingner, P.E.
Phone: 217.223.4456
Email: mdk@klingner.com

Doris I. Willmer, P.E., LEED AP, F.ACEC
Phone: 770.939.0089
Email: dwillmer@willmerengineering.com

Rachel Hayden, P.E.
Phone: 214.753.8100
Email: Rachel@haydenconsultants.com

Armando Ramos, P.E., LEED AP
Phone: 626.993.6786
Email: aramos@ramoscs.com

Paul Boyce, P.E., PG
Phone: 631.589.6353
Email: paulb@pwgrosser.com

Marc Alper, P.E., S.E., F.ACEC
Phone: 314.432.8600
Email: marc.alper@alperaudi.com

Gary E. Loesch, P.E. DEE
Phone: 631.756.8000
Email: gloesch@h2m.com

About EPIC:
EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For more information, visit: https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

The American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Business Insurance Trust (BIT) and Greyling/EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants announced today that Paul Boyce, P.E., PG, has been appointed a Trustee for the ACEC Business Insurance Trust.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Paragon Further Strengthens Operations with its Promotion of Erik Kriens to Regional President in the West

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC ("Paragon"), a national multi-line specialty MGA (Managing General Agency) based in Avon, Conn., today announced the promotion of Erik Kriens to Regional President. Kriens is based in Paragon's San Francisco office and reports directly to Paragon CEO and Co-founder Ron Ganiats. Kriens has served as Senior Vice President of Business Development since joining Paragon in September 2015.

In his expanded role, Kriens will assume all P&L responsibility for Paragon's WineRe, WineryPlus and BreweryPlus programs. Working closely with the teams dedicated to both programs, Kriens will create and lead strategic growth plans for these important business segments. He will also continue to work directly with the Insurance Boards of Paragon's Pest Control and Rental Equipment Programs.

Said Paragon's Ron Ganiats, "Erik has been a top performer since joining Paragon, and has played a key role in the success we have achieved to date and in positioning Paragon to fully capitalize on the significant market opportunities we see ahead in both the winery and brewery industries. His leadership as Regional President will be critically important to driving further value to our clients, insurance company partners, and other stakeholders."

Erik Kriens can be reached at ekriens@paragoninsgroup.com or at 415-300-6820

About Paragon:

A broadly diversified MGA, Paragon provides unique opportunities and solutions to retail agents, insurance carriers, reinsurers and vendor partners. Please visit https://www.paragoninsgroup.com for additional information.

Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC ("Paragon"), a national multi-line specialty MGA (Managing General Agency) based in Avon, Conn., today announced the promotion of Erik Kriens to Regional President. Kriens is based in Paragon's San Francisco office and reports directly to Paragon CEO and Co-founder Ron Ganiats.

Related link: https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/

Adam Glick Appointed Principal of Frenkel and Company – an EPIC Company in New York

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Frenkel & Company - an EPIC Company announced today that risk management and insurance professional Adam Glick has been appointed Principal of the firm's operations in New York.

Glick is based in EPIC's New York, NY office at 350 Hudson Street and reports to Phil Remig, New York City President & COO.

As Principal, Glick will be responsible for new business development; management of property/casualty insurance programs; developing employee benefits programs; and providing risk management strategies and solutions to mid-market and large clients across a range of industries. In particular, Glick has a specialty focus on the complex needs of advertising/media companies; financial services firms, law firms, and the real-estate industry.

"We are excited about Adam's continuing growth and success, and how he has helped his clients understand, mitigate and successfully manage a wide range of risk management challenges," said Phil Remig. "He is highly regarded for his professional knowledge; for building strong, positive relationships; and for providing exceptional service to his clients. Adam's expanded role and responsibilities will help to further deepen and strengthen our exceptional team, both regionally and across the country."

Glick attended Miami University where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organization Behavior and Human Resources Management. Glick also holds a Master Degree from Fordham University.

Adam Glick can be reached at aglick@frenkel.com or 212.488.0390 (office).

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

Frenkel & Company - an EPIC Company announced today that risk management and insurance professional Adam Glick has been appointed Principal of the firm's operations in New York. Glick is based in EPIC's New York, NY office and reports to Phil Remig, New York City President & COO.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC to Exhibit at 2019 Gulf Coast Symposium on HR Issues

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it will exhibit at the Gulf Coast Symposium on May 15-17, 2019 at the NRG Center in Houston, Texas.

The Gulf Coast Symposium is the largest conference for human resource professionals on the Gulf Coast. Recognized as the center point for all things HR, the Symposium gives attendees the opportunity to connect to knowledge, relationships and solutions as they prepare to lead into the next decade. Guests can expect over 175 sessions covering a variety of HR industry topics and can earn up to 17 recertification credit hours toward their SHRM or HRCI certifications.

EPIC will be exhibiting at booth 224 in the Exhibitor Hall. Business Development Manager Mike Lopez and Consultant Will Herold will be manning the booth to discuss EPIC's offerings related to compensation and benefits, employee relations, technology, health, wellness and safety.

Click here for additional details: https://www.hrhouston.org/mpage/GCS19_Home.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it will exhibit at the Gulf Coast Symposium on May 15-17, 2019 at the NRG Center in Houston, Texas.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Acquires Book of Business of Brokers Insurance Mart, Inc. (BIM)

LIVERMORE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it acquired in an asset sale the book of business of Brokers Insurance Mart, Inc. (BIM) on April 15, 2019.

Founded in 1974, Livermore, Calif.-based BIM specializes in providing Auto, Homeowners, Renters, Small Commercial, Personal and Commercial Umbrella, and RV/Boat policies, as well as Mechanical Breakdown insurance.

BIM is led by owner and principal Mitch Carter, who will remain with EPIC in a consulting capacity to assist with the transition of current BIM clients into EPIC's Personal Insurance/Private Client Services operations.

Said Mitch Carter, "BIM has proudly and successfully served the needs of our California clients for 45 years. In making this transition it was extremely important to find a partner who shares our client-focused beliefs and values and a commitment to service excellence. EPIC is just such a partner, and our clients will only benefit from their 'people first' philosophy and access to EPIC's broad, comprehensive, industry-leading services and support."

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it acquired in an asset sale the book of business of Brokers Insurance Mart, Inc. (BIM) on April 15, 2019.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Travel Insurance 101: Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for Your 2019 Summer Travel

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Between snowstorms and holiday travel, the winter months may seem the most logical time to buy travel insurance, however according to TravelInsurance.com, spring and summer present just as many potential travel issues that travel insurance can help address. In fact, more than half of all flight delays each year happen in the summer.

Some key factors that can wreak havoc on a perfectly planned summer vacation include:

* Weather. Hurricane season starts June 1; excessive heat makes it harder for planes to both take off and land; and afternoon thunderstorms are common across much of the country.
* Increased Congestion. More people traveling means greater risk of travel delays and travel interruptions, and with full flights, it's harder to get booked on the next flight out. This congestion can also increase the likelihood of baggage delays and lost or stolen luggage.
* More active vacations. During the summer months, hiking, biking, boating and a whole host of other activities can lead to more injuries while on the road.

"For many travelers, a summer vacation is something they save up for all year, and protecting this investment is a wise move," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com. "Knowing who and what you need to protect is the key to finding the best travel insurance for your needs, as travel insurance is not a one-size-fits-all purchase. By asking some basic questions, and shopping around for the best policy, travelers can get the right travel protection for their type of vacation -- and with coverage in place, all they'll need to do is focus on having fun."

To ensure you find the best plan, TravelInsurance.com recommends travelers ask themselves the following questions:

* What are you trying to protect? Do you want to recover the cost of your trip if something unexpectedly goes wrong and you need to cancel? Do you also want to cover the medical expenses if you fall ill or get injured while traveling? A trip cancellation plan with emergency travel medical and evacuation coverage might be right for you. Do you travel with expensive clothing and gear that would be costly to replace if lost or stolen? If so, it's wise to purchase additional coverage for your luggage.
* Where are you going? Is your destination a remote outpost with a single doctor or a big city in the U.S. with state-of-the-art hospitals? A cruise around the Carribean or a European adventure? Emergency medical and evacuation coverage should be considered when traveling internationally or to remote destinations, and cruise-specific coverage is an option for those headed into the open seas.
* What will you be doing? Is your travel bug more about bungee jumping and SCUBA diving or sitting by the pool at the hotel? Thrill-seekers should look for plans that offer a hazardous sports coverage option.
* How long will you be gone? Are you escaping for a getaway weekend or an extended months-long tour? Most plans are designed for trips of less than 30 days and are subject to surcharges for every day beyond the plan's limit.
* Who are you traveling with? Are you a solo traveler or do you plan to globe-trot with a large group? Did you volunteer to organize your large family reunion? Group travel insurance may be the right option for groups of 10 or more travelers on the same itinerary.

Whatever your type of travel, there is a travel insurance plan that can meet your needs. Comparison sites like TravelInsurance.com offer travelers a way to search, compare and purchase travel insurance from among the most recognizable names in the global travel insurance industry. Comparison shopping gives consumers choice and helps travelers find the right plan at the right price; many plans start at just 4% of the total travel costs for a trip.

"It can be more than frustrating when a painstakingly planned vacation goes unexpectedly wrong, especially when your hard-earned dollars are at risk," continued Sandberg. "By purchasing the right travel insurance for your summer travel, you can help remove some of the financial pain when a vacation goes awry."

For more information and travel tips, visit https://www.travelinsurance.com/.

About TravelInsurance.com:
TravelInsurance.com helps simplify the complicated world of travel insurance by providing consumers with the easiest way to compare and buy trip insurance coverage online. A member company of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, owned and operated by DigiVentures Holdings, LLC, a licensed agency that works with some of the largest travel insurers in the industry. Purchases can be made directly through the website, with policies sent via email within minutes.

Between snowstorms and holiday travel, the winter months may seem the most logical time to buy travel insurance, however according to TravelInsurance.com, spring and summer present just as many potential travel issues that travel insurance can help address. In fact, more than half of all flight delays each year happen in the summer.

Related link: https://www.travelinsurance.com/

EPIC’s Kevin Ach and Walter Palmer to Present on Business Continuity and Theft at 2019 Retail Asset Protection Conference

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Practice Leader Walter Palmer will facilitate a session on May 6 at Retail Asset Protection Conference and Vice President of Risk Assurance Kevin Ach will present on May 7 at the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, Colorado.

The Retail Asset Protection Conference attracts top-level executives from the most progressive retailers in the world. These professionals attend to share and solicit the best ideas in the industry in order to enhance their own organizational effectiveness. Attendees will hear top retail executives share and create new solutions to significant challenges and explore where the industry is going.

Walter Palmer will facilitate a session on "Turning the Tide on Retail Theft in CA" on Monday, May 6 at 2:15 p.m. where retailers and law enforcement professionals will share their journey to understand California's first organized retail theft law, its impact and the importance of partnerships and the role we all play as a part of the community in reducing and stopping the impact of organized retail crime.

Kevin Ach will present on "How Asset Protection Led the Way in Building a Robust Business Continuity Program" on Tuesday, May 7 at 1:15 p.m. alongside Robert LaCommare, vice president, asset protection & safety at Big Lots. In this presentation, Ach and LaCommare will give an inside look at how a $7 billion retailer with multiple brands implemented a comprehensive approach to business continuity resulting in raised internal awareness around emergency response and crisis management and the implementation of a dependable and repeatable process.

Click here to see the full agenda: https://rila.force.com/s/lt-event?id=a1T610000050RMQEA2#Agenda

About Kevin Ach, vice president, risk assurance:

Kevin Ach is a global leader in the loss prevention industry with over 18 years of experience in retail operations, supply chain, internal audit and international operations. As the Vice President, Risk Assurance for EPIC Integrated Risk Solutions, Ach assists organizations in risk mitigation, process improvements and operational efficiencies in the areas of Risk Management, Cybersecurity, Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity, Internal Audit and Loss Prevention.

Prior to joining EPIC, Ach was the senior director of retail loss prevention and safety for Office Depot Inc., overseeing loss prevention and safety activities for over 1,500 retail stores. Ach has also held varying management positions in supply chain, international retail operations, B2B and internal audit during his career. Prior to joining Office Depot, Ach worked for Arthur Andersen as an Information Systems consultant in Houston, TX.

Ach has been actively engaged in the loss prevention industry as a speaker on numerous occasions at National Retail Federation conferences. He has also been an active member of the Loss Prevention Research Council and was a key player in the creation of an industry mentoring program for loss prevention practitioners.

Ach earned his B.S. degree in Systems Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point and proudly served our country for four years as an Officer in the US Army's Signal Corps branch. Ach is a Board Member of the West Point Society of the Palm Beaches. He holds the LPC certification through the Loss Prevention Foundation. Ach currently resides in Boynton Beach, FL with his wife and four children.

About Walter Palmer, practice leader:

Walter Palmer is recognized as a leading consultant in the Loss Prevention industry and provides strategic guidance, research and training programs for some of the leading retail brands in the world. He has been an invited speaker at more than 100 conferences around the globe and has authored over 60 articles for industry and mainstream media.

Palmer earned his B.S. degree in Security and Loss Prevention with a minor in Fire Safety Engineering from Eastern Kentucky University. He is a Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Forensic Interviewer. He is a contributing writer for LP Magazine, serves on the Advisory Board for the International Association of Interviewers, and serves on the Advisory Committee for the National Shoplifting Prevention Coalition. In addition, Palmer is actively involved in the field of professional development and training and is a member of the Association for Talent Development, the International Society for Performance Improvement and the Society for Human Resource Management.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Practice Leader Walter Palmer will facilitate a session on May 6 at Retail Asset Protection Conference and Vice President of Risk Assurance Kevin Ach will present on May 7 at the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Michigan-Based Liberty Title Deploys SafeWire to Protect Against Wire Fraud

COLUMBUS, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- SafeChain, the industry leader in wire fraud prevention software and blockchain implementation for land title, announced today that Liberty Title, the fourth largest independent title company in Michigan, has selected SafeWire(TM) to safeguard wiring instructions as part of the firm's "Umbrella by Liberty Title" program.

Consumers that choose Liberty Title to close both sides of their transaction are automatically enrolled in the program and receive protection that extends to their real estate agent and lender through every phase of the closing process.

"With wire fraud and identity theft continuing to plague real estate transactions, we launched our Umbrella program to provide our customers with peace of mind that their funds and identities are protected throughout the closing process," said Michele Richardson, President at Liberty Title. "SafeWire plays a critical role in helping Liberty Title deliver pre-closing protection to our customers by providing a secure, blockchain-backed portal through which we can communicate wiring instructions, and we are delighted to partner with SafeChain to help ensure our customers' transactions remain fraud-free from start to finish."

SafeWire provides title agents with the ability to verify the identities of both the buyer and seller in the transaction and authenticate bank account ownership to ensure funds are transferred to authorized parties and accounts. In addition, the platform utilizes blockchain technology to securely store and transmit wiring instructions for real estate transactions, preventing fraudsters from intercepting and tampering with transaction data.

"Title agencies cannot be too cautious or too careful when it comes to preventing wire fraud, and we firmly support efforts like 'Umbrella by Liberty Title' that seek to provide the highest levels of transaction security and protection possible," said Tony Franco, CEO and co-founder of SafeChain. "With this program, Liberty Title has made a firm declaration regarding its commitment to shielding consumers from harm in the homebuying process, and we encourage all title agencies to adopt a similar pledge to help collectively stamp out real estate wire fraud."

About SafeChain:

SafeChain makes real estate transactions safer and modernizes operations for both the public and private sectors of the land title industry. Built by real estate title experts in collaboration with banking technologists, SafeChain tackles the inefficiencies of the home buying and selling process from the inside-out to help title companies, mortgage bankers, realtors and local governments decrease costs and deliver a better experience for customers. Leveraging the most advanced technologies, including blockchain, SafeChain increases the speed and security of real estate closings to deliver faster transactions and better consumer confidence. For more information visit https://www.safechain.io.

SafeChain, the industry leader in wire fraud prevention software and blockchain implementation for land title, announced today that Liberty Title, the fourth largest independent title company in Michigan, has selected SafeWire(TM) to safeguard wiring instructions as part of the firm's "Umbrella by Liberty Title" program.

Related link: https://www.safechain.io/

SafeChain Announces Founding Title Partners in Blockchain Network

COLUMBUS, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- SafeChain, in partnership with 9 independent title agents in Ohio, has launched a blockchain-backed network that enables peer-to-peer transfers of prior title insurance policies to streamline the title search process and drive down costs for member agencies.

The new network allows independent agents to share prior policies, rewarding contributing agents for policies accessed. Agents have the ability to set the price of their policies as well as customize which underwriters and agents they want to view in their search results. While member agents will maintain governance of the network upon completion, SafeChain will act as the network operator while the project is being built and will gradually relinquish control over to independent agents over the course of the next few years.

"The future of technology in title is driven by the independent title agent. Using world-class software and a new way of thinking about partnerships, we can create a better experience for consumers. It's not a fierce competition, but working together in the best interest of our customers that will allow the industry to redefine how it operates," said Tony Franco, CEO of SafeChain.

Created by and for independent agents the goal of the network is to unlock unrealized value that prior policies can provide. With the network, independent agents will be able to protect their intellectual property, search work programmatically and set the price should they choose to share with other partners of the network.

The initial agent group is set with the task of establishing governance, fees, and network upgrades. Founding members include:

* Jonathan Holfinger - COO/Principal of Northwest Title
* Scott Stevenson - CEO/Principal of Northwest Title
* Ryan Marrie - President of Ohio Real Title
* Sean Stoner - President and CEO of Title First
* Jeff Meyer - Owner of Clean Title Agency, Columbia Title Agency, WIN Title Agency and Leadership Title Company
* Jim Janson - President of Chicago Title of Northeast Ohio
* Kevin Blum - President of Erie Title
* Kelley Sauerzopf - Co-Owner of World Class Title
* Tim Leehan - Partner of Venture Land Title
* John Dyer - President of Nova Title

"We have taken an active interest in learning about what blockchain technology can provide to the title industry, and this project seems to be the most valuable use case for title agents to date," Holfinger said. "We are excited to be part of a project that both shares and protects our work product, increases consumers' access to re-issue credit, and lowers our search costs."

"In the past technology was driven by the title plants and underwriters -- both of which are traditionally slow to adopt new technologies based on their current market lead. It makes way more sense to have independent agents driving change in the industry, and I am eager to work with our partners in Ohio to improve our technical capabilities," added Marrie.

Independent title agents can sign up to learn more at https://www.safechain.io/prior-policy-network.

About SafeChain:

SafeChain makes real estate transactions safer and modernizes operations for both the public and private sectors of the land title industry. Built by real estate title experts in collaboration with banking technologists, SafeChain tackles the inefficiencies of the home buying and selling process from the inside-out to help title companies, mortgage bankers, realtors and local governments decrease costs and deliver a better experience for customers. Leveraging the most advanced technologies, including blockchain, SafeChain increases the speed and security of real estate closings to deliver faster transactions and better consumer confidence. For more information visit https://www.safechain.io.

SafeChain, in partnership with 9 independent title agents in Ohio, has launched a blockchain-backed network that enables peer-to-peer transfers of prior title insurance policies to streamline the title search process and drive down costs for member agencies.

Related link: https://www.safechain.io/

EPIC’s Tiffany McClellan to Present on Designing Benefits Plans at HRE Health and Benefits Leadership Conference

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Regional Director of Employee Benefits Tiffany McClellan, CEBS, will present at the Human Resource Executive (HRE) Health & Benefits Leadership Conference on Thursday, April 25 at 11:30 a.m. at the Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

HRE Health & Benefits Leadership Conference is an annual gathering of the nation's top HR and benefits professionals. Attendees will gain the foresight needed to create the perfect benefits package and discover strategies that help organizations from various industries and sizes thrive. Industry experts and professionals leading the innovation will share their insight on how to keep your programs fresh and competitive.

McClellan will present on "Designing Benefits to Compete with the Big Dogs - a Tale of a Small-Niche Technology Company" alongside Cari Graham, director of human resources at BlackBag Technologies. In this presentation, McClellan and Graham will describe how to craft a world-class benefits design that's able to educate and engage a virtual workforce in their health and well-being without spending a small fortune.

Click here to see the full agenda: https://s23.a2zinc.net/Clients/lrp/benefitsconf2019/Public/Sessions.aspx

About Tiffany McClellan, CEBS, regional director of employee benefits:

As Regional Director, Employee Benefits, McClellan is focused on growing EPIC's employee benefits consulting practice in Southern California. She believes Human Resource teams bring significant value to their organizations when the HR strategy aligns with the business strategy. The key to developing a successful employee benefits program is determining the types of benefits your unique employee population value and successful employee communication. McClellan helps her clients manage the balance of aggressive financial management and continuing to offer appealing and attractive employee benefits all while remaining in compliance.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Regional Director of Employee Benefits Tiffany McClellan, CEBS, will present at the Human Resource Executive (HRE) Health & Benefits Leadership Conference on Thursday, April 25 at 11:30 a.m. at the Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Matic Makes HousingWire’s List of Top Mortgage Tech Companies for Second Year in a Row

COLUMBUS, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- Digital insurance agency Matic has been named to HousingWire's HW TECH100(TM) list of the top housing technology companies in the United States. The annual awards program, now in its sixth year, recognizes the most innovative tech firms in the real estate and mortgage finance sector.

Matic was recognized for its digital homeowners insurance marketplace, which helps lenders and servicers integrate homeowners insurance into the mortgage process. Matic's proprietary technology reduces the time it takes to compare and purchase policies from an average of two to three days to about two to three minutes, greatly speeding up loan transactions and helping mortgage customers save money.

"These companies hold the most innovative and impactful technology in mortgage finance and continue to move markets forward with their new innovations," said HousingWire Associate Editor Kelsey Ramírez. "The future is bright for the mortgage industry, and it's because these companies continue to push the edge of what is possible."

"Matic adds value for originators, servicers and borrowers by making homeowners insurance an integrated part of the mortgage process," said Matic CEO Ben Madick. "Since making our debut on HousingWire's Tech100 list last year, we've built on our industry-leading offering by adding new tools for loan officers and expanding our lender, servicer and carrier partnerships. It's an honor to be recognized again this year for our continued commitment to innovation."

About Matic:

Matic is a digital homeowners insurance marketplace built for mortgage servicers and lenders. Matic's proprietary technology analyzes data from loan origination and servicing software to give homebuyers multiple policy options within seconds - without any manual data entry or lengthy questionnaires. With more than 20 A-rated carrier partners and industry-leading customer service ratings, Matic helps loan officers close deals faster and enables mortgage servicers to delight customers with an average of $617 per year in unexpected savings. For more information, visit https://matic.com or follow Matic on LinkedIn.

About HousingWire:

HousingWire is the nation's most influential source of news and information for U.S. mortgage markets, boasting a readership that spans lending, servicing, investments and real estate market participants as well as financial market professionals. Winner of numerous awards, including a 2012 Eddie Award for national editorial excellence in B-to-B Banking/Business/Finance, HousingWire has been recognized for excellence in journalism by the Society of Business Editors and Writers, the American Society of Business Press Editors, the National Association of Real Estate Editors, and Trade Association Business Publications International. Visit https://www.HousingWire.com to learn more.

Twitter: @maticinsurance @HousingWire #2019HWTECH100

Digital insurance agency Matic has been named to HousingWire's HW TECH100(TM) list of the top housing technology companies in the United States. The annual awards program, now in its sixth year, recognizes the most innovative tech firms in the real estate and mortgage finance sector.

Related link: https://maticinsurance.com/

EPIC to Sponsor 2019 International Association of Interviewers Elite Training Day

FORT MYERS, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it will sponsor the International Association of Interviewers (IAI) Elite Training Day on Wednesday, April 3 and Thursday, April 4, 2019 at Chico's Headquarters in Fort Myers, Fla.

EPIC Practice Leader and IAI Advisory Board Member Walter Palmer and Vice President of Risk Assurance Kevin Ach will attend the event on behalf of the Integrated Risk Solutions Practice, a team of risk assurance and asset protection professionals that bring a comprehensive perspective to building strategic initiatives.

Palmer and Ach, will be joined at the event by EPIC's Sr. Field Director Dennis Lonergan and his team of Field Directors, all of whom are Certified Forensic Interviewers.

IAI fills a unique niche for the interview and interrogation community to support and represent its distinct needs. The creators of the Certified Forensic Interviewer designation (CFI) recognized the need for ongoing education and collaboration among individuals whose job responsibilities include interviewing, interrogation and investigations. In June of 2012, IAI was created to become a knowledge and skills development resource for its members including law enforcement, loss prevention, risk management, audit, government agencies, insurance companies, banking, military, students and human resources.

Elite Training Day is the only event of its kind focused on the craft of interviewing and interrogation. It was created by IAI for Certified Forensic Interviewers to promote their educational growth as elite interviewers. The event is designed for anyone interested in becoming an elite interviewer and attendees will hear from industry professionals on key topics. Past events have been attended by high-level executives from various disciplines including loss prevention/asset protection, law enforcement, human resources, inspector generals, auditors, government officials and educators.

Click here to register for the event: https://www.w-z.com/register/?id=967

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that it will sponsor the International Association of Interviewers (IAI) Elite Training Day on Wednesday, April 3 and Thursday, April 4, 2019 at Chico's Headquarters in Fort Myers, Fla.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Adds Vanessa Smiley in Atlanta, Georgia

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, today announced the addition of Vanessa Smiley who will assume a key role in EPIC's growing Integrated Risk Solutions Consulting Practice as Senior Vice President, Operations.

Smiley joins EPIC from Beecher Carlson in Atlanta, where she served as Vice President, Claims Operations.

Maurice Edwards, Managing Principal of EPIC's Integrated Risk Solutions Practice, commented, "We are very pleased and excited to add Vanessa, a well-respected thought leader in the area of operational efficiency. Vanessa will lead operations with a focus on building processes and procedures to further expand and enhance the value we deliver to our clients."

Vanessa Smiley can be reached by email at vanessa.smiley@epicbrokers.com or by phone at (708) 287-0641.

Learn more about EPIC Integrated Risk Solutions at https://www.epicbrokers.com/product/integrated-risk-solutions/

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, today announced the addition of Vanessa Smiley who will assume a key role in EPIC's growing Integrated Risk Solutions Consulting Practice as Senior Vice President, Operations.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Adds Chris Knight in Atlanta Georgia

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, today announced the addition of Chris Knight who will assume a key role in EPIC's growing Integrated Risk Solutions Consulting Practice as Senior Vice President, Analytics and Innovation.

Knight joins EPIC from Beecher Carlson in Atlanta, where he served as Vice President, Analytics.

Maurice Edwards, Managing Principal of EPIC's Integrated Risk Solutions Practice, commented, "Chris will be responsible for creating and delivering our cutting-edge advanced analytical tools that drive innovation throughout our organization. Through his leadership, EPIC will leverage quantitative and statistical techniques to enhance decision-making and generate solutions to drive cost reduction, and optimize value for our clients."

Chris Knight can be reached by email at christopher.knight@epicbrokers.com or by phone at (770) 883-7620.

Learn more about EPIC Integrated Risk Solutions at https://www.epicbrokers.com/product/integrated-risk-solutions/

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, today announced the addition of Chris Knight who will assume a key role in EPIC's growing Integrated Risk Solutions Consulting Practice as Senior Vice President, Analytics and Innovation.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Home Point Financial Partners with Matic to Offer Customers Lowest Market Rates on Homeowners Insurance

COLUMBUS, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- Digital insurance agency Matic announced today that it has partnered with Home Point Financial Corporation ("Home Point"), a national, mortgage originator and servicer, to help its mortgage servicing customers find competitively priced homeowners insurance.

Through the partnership, Matic will proactively analyze Home Point customers' current homeowners insurance coverage and identify individuals who could save money simply by switching to a different A-rated insurance carrier. Because Matic instantly shops for real-time rates with more than a dozen carriers, it can save homeowners an average of $517 on annual premiums.

"At Home Point, we value the relationship we have with our customers," said Home Point COO Brian Brizard. "We constantly seek ways to improve their lives and their finances. Our partnership with Matic gives Home Point customers access to a fast and efficient way to insure their home with confidence."

"Integrating homeowners insurance into the mortgage loan process is a win-win for Home Point's customers," said Matic Co-founder and CEO Ben Madick. "Matic helps Home Point stay connected with its customers in the best possible way - by providing a quick and potentially cost-saving way to find the right homeowners coverage for their mortgage loan."

About Matic:
Matic is a digital homeowners insurance marketplace built for mortgage servicers and lenders. Matic's proprietary technology analyzes data from loan origination and servicing software to give homebuyers multiple policy options within seconds - without any manual data entry or lengthy questionnaires. With more than 20 A-rated carrier partners and industry-leading customer service ratings, Matic helps loan officers close deals faster and enables mortgage servicers to delight customers with an average of $517 in unexpected savings. For more information, visit https://matic.com or follow Matic on LinkedIn.

About Home Point Financial:
Home Point Financial is a national mortgage originator and servicer. With the goal of providing a superior customer experience, Home Point has an innovative approach to lending, focusing on speed, quality and consistency for customers and partners. Home Point's operating philosophy is defined by the simple but very impactful statement - "We Care."

Located in Ann Arbor, MI, Home Point Financial is a subsidiary of Home Point Capital LP, a financial services holding company founded in 2014 and owned by members of management and by investment funds managed by Stone Point Capital LLC. For further information about Home Point Financial, please visit https://www.homepointfinancial.com.

Twitter: @maticinsurance @HomePointLoans #HOI #homeownersinsurance #mortgageservicing

Digital insurance agency Matic announced today that it has partnered with Home Point Financial Corporation ("Home Point"), a national, mortgage originator and servicer, to help its mortgage servicing customers find competitively priced homeowners insurance.

Related link: https://maticinsurance.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers Adds Kevin Grady and Christian Florence in Atlanta

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, today announced the addition of Kevin Grady and Christian Florence, both recognized experts in utilizing rigorous data analyses, benchmarking, and key performance metrics to reduce the total cost of risk.

Grady and Florence will join as Managing Principals and together with current EPIC Managing Principals Maurice Edwards and Jim Bacon (who recently joined EPIC through its Integro USA acquisition) will be responsible for leveraging data analytics to design and execute cost containment strategies that are proven to improve year-over-year outcomes and reduce the total cost of risk for EPIC clients.

Both Grady and Florence join EPIC from Beecher Carlson in Atlanta, where Grady served as Senior Managing Director and Florence as Managing Director, each focusing on Loss Cost Reduction solutions and practices.

Marc Kunney, President of the recently acquired Integro USA operations of EPIC, said "We are very pleased and excited to add these two highly regarded Loss Cost Reduction professionals to join Maurice Edwards and Jim Bacon of our EPIC team. Kevin and Christian are widely recognized for the depth of their experience and knowledge, creativity and innovation, and effective client consulting skills and abilities. They will add significantly to the resources and support we can make available to our larger and more complex clients, as well as to EPIC team members across the country."

Maurice Edwards, Managing Principal of Integrated Risk Solutions, on behalf of himself and Jim Bacon, also commented that "With the addition of Kevin and Christian, today marks a watershed day for EPIC's delivery of a best-in-class cost containment service for our clients. Since joining forces with the highly skilled professionals at Integro USA, EPIC has committed to creating a consulting practice focused on enterprise risk management services including a full suite of pre-loss risk assurance and avoidance, asset protection, training and awareness, and post-loss servicing. We are thrilled to have Kevin and Christian on our team"

Kevin Grady can be reached by email at kevin.grady@epicbrokers.com or by phone at (615) 604-8983.

Christian Florence can be reached by email at christian.florence@epicbrokers.com or by phone at (804) 873-3802.

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, including inquiries about employment, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, today announced the addition of Kevin Grady and Christian Florence, both recognized experts in utilizing rigorous data analyses, benchmarking, and key performance metrics to reduce the total cost of risk.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers adds JoBeth Wells in Dallas Texas

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants announced today that JoBeth Wells has joined the firm's Property and Casualty operations, as a Principal, reporting to EPIC Managing Principal and Director of the Southwest Region, KJ Wagner.

Wells, based in Dallas, will be responsible for new business development and the design, placement and management of property/casualty insurance programs, providing risk management strategies and solutions for mid-market and large clients.

Wells joins EPIC from Willis Towers Watson, where she served as an Executive Vice President for over 30 years through predecessor companies. JoBeth specializes in the Construction, Real Estate and Public Entity industries.

"We are thrilled to continue the growth of our Property & Casualty team in the Southwest region with JoBeth's addition," said KJ Wagner. "She brings a strong risk management background that adds tremendous value to our clients. I am particularly excited to re-unite with JoBeth. She will be a terrific addition to EPIC."

JoBeth Wells can be reached at jobeth.wells@epicbrokers.com or 214-415-5345.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,800 team members operating from 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to EPIC clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $575 million, EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed and sponsored by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants announced today that JoBeth Wells has joined the firm's Property and Casualty operations, as a Principal, reporting to EPIC Managing Principal and Director of the Southwest Region, KJ Wagner.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/