Specialized talent and strategic business integration reinforce Apex’s leadership in the public entity market
Bridge Specialty Group, a leading global insurance wholesale broker, today announced that Rett Smart and Joe Loveland have joined Apex Insurance Agency, LLC (Apex), a Bridge Specialty Group business, further strengthening its workers’ compensation capabilities for public entities and educational institutions.
Smart and Loveland, formerly of Loveland & Smart Insurance Services, bring more than 50 years of combined insurance experience and deep specialization in excess workers’ compensation, casualty insurance and risk management solutions. Based in Carmichael, CA, they will join the team at Apex to expand one of the nation’s largest wholesale brokers dedicated exclusively to public entities and schools, and they will report to Apex president Karl Snearer.
The addition of Smart and Loveland further expand Apex’s public entity platform, broadening its workers’ compensation capabilities and strengthening its ability to deliver comprehensive, all-lines solutions for retail partners serving complex public sector risks.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Rett and Joe to Apex,” said Snearer. “They are highly respected industry leaders who have built their careers serving the public entity market. Their deep knowledge of workers’ compensation, long-standing relationships and commitment to this industry strengthen our platform as we continue expanding specialized solutions, resources and market access for retail agents and brokers.”
Smart most recently served as president of Loveland & Smart Insurance Services, where he led business strategy, operations, customer relationships and underwriting initiatives. Previously, he served as executive vice president for nearly 20 years and brings more than 40 years of experience across underwriting, brokerage leadership and risk management.
Loveland brings more than 22 years of insurance industry experience, most recently serving as vice president of Loveland & Smart Insurance Services. Throughout his career, he has focused on developing strong customer and carrier relationships while delivering specialized insurance solutions for public entity risks.
“Joe and I have tremendous respect for Karl, the Apex team and everything they have built,” said Smart. “Joining Apex gives us access to a national platform with unmatched capabilities, broad market relationships and exclusive products, allowing us to deliver even greater value to our retail partners.”
Additionally, effective September 1, Corieri & Associates, Inc. will become part of Apex Insurance Agency, LLC, bringing its team and capabilities under the Apex brand. Corieri & Associates joined the organization in 2025 through the acquisition of One80 Intermediaries. Founded in 1987, the company has built a strong reputation as a program administrator specializing in property and casualty insurance solutions for public entities throughout New York and Pennsylvania. Its integration into Apex expands the division’s capabilities while strengthening its presence in the Northeast.
To learn more about Bridge Specialty Group’s public entity capabilities, visit bridgespecialtygroup.com/practice-group/public-entity/.
