Discover the value of collaboration with Bridge Specialty Workers’ Compensation Practice Group

Bridge Specialty Practice Groups

With more than 50 locations and 2,000 teammates throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia, Bridge Specialty Group holds market recognition that enables us to connect our retail customers with tailored insurance solutions through our specific practice groups including Property, Casualty, Environmental, Executive Risk, Personal Lines, Public Entity, Farm & Ranch, Transportation and Workers’ Compensation.

Leveraging our exclusive access to limited markets, extensive market knowledge, and awareness of wholesale industry trends, Bridge Specialty Group offers valuable insights to help guide and keep retailers aware of the wholesale landscape.

In the following months, we’ll spotlight each of the Bridge Specialty Group practice groups and their significance in the marketplace. This month we’re featuring our Workers’ Compensation Practice Group, which is co-led by Tim Sullivan, Executive Vice President – Bridge Specialty Group, and Michele Mayer, Director of Business Development – Arrowhead General Insurance Agency.

Exploring Bridge Specialty Workers’ Compensation Practice Group

We recently sat down with Tim and Michele and asked them about this exciting Workers’ Compensation Practice Group and its significance in the marketplace. Here’s what they had to say!

How would you describe the Workers’ Compensation Practice Group and its diverse team?

According to Tim and Michele, the practice group includes a diverse team of professionals, each bringing unique skills and perspectives to the table from both wholesale brokerage, which is Bridge Specialty Group, and traditional workers’ compensation insurance, through Arrowhead General Insurance Agency, an Arrowhead Program. These two businesses boast 100 years of combined experience, delivering deep industry knowledge. By merging their strengths, they control the entire underwriting process and deliver precision and efficiency in every phase. Their extensive network of “A” rated carriers allows them to offer a comprehensive suite of solutions tailored to meet the needs of various industries across the United States.

Michele and Tim are excited about how the two teams collaborate with each other to gain access to and leverage different types of programs that align with the needs of their customers. This collaboration between Bridge Specialty Group and Arrowhead results in a unique and powerful strategy that provides robust Workers’ Compensation coverage options for all types of risks. As the largest program administrator in the country, Arrowhead Programs unites insurance solutions for carriers and agencies under one roof. Our partnership with top-rated insurance companies allows us to offer commercial insurance products that address customers’ specific needs.

Tim shared, “Our big value add is that the practice group is a mix of producers, executives and program managers who are able to leverage solutions. We can place a wide range of risks, and our goal is to continue to bring our collective experience and market access to our retail customers with an easy and efficient experience when shopping for workers’ compensation solutions.”

What’s unique about the Workers’ Compensation Practice Group and what are you known for in the marketplace?

Tim and Michele shared that what makes the practice group unique is the combination of Arrowhead’s deep knowledge of client needs and local market conditions and Bridge Specialty Group’s understanding of complex and specialized insurance products.

They described the collaboration between Arrowhead and Bridge Specialty Group as a key differentiator for the Workers’ Compensation Practice Group that allows them to leverage their collective experience and market access to provide sound solutions for their retail customers. Tim pointed out that the culture of selflessness within the group fosters a willingness to serve the unique needs of their customers.

They also emphasized that the teams are easy to work with and that their deep experience and knowledge help them to consistently anticipate the needs of their customers and remain competitive in the marketplace. Michele added, “We have a broad appetite (from standard risks to high-risk or hard-to-place accounts) and can consider small as well as multi-million-dollar accounts with a dedicated underwriting team. We have a variety of programs for cannabis, healthcare, manufacturing and public entities with competitive pricing.”

One of the standout features of the practice group is a construction program that has been in place for 17 years. Combined with the ability to package it with auto insurance in California demonstrates the group’s innovative solutions and strong market relationships. Tim added, “Our flagship product is our Security Guard program. We have teammates who are solely focused on this program and have access to an exclusive product as well as other specialized, limited distribution products that are hard to come by.”

Additionally, their claims handling is highly respected in the industry. And when it’s “claim time,” the close relationship between underwriters and claims handlers has ensured seamless communication and support.

How has your practice group adapted to recent industry trends or market changes?

The practice group is mindful of industry trends and market changes, adapting their strategies to stay ahead. Tim added that in today’s rapidly changing market, success requires the kind of team effort the practice group provides, and that approach addresses where the marketplace is going. He added they must continue to consolidate resources to address industry trends and provide effective solutions.

How are carriers responding to the Workers’ Compensation Practice Group?

Tim noted that carriers have responded positively to the formation of the Workers’ Compensation Practice Group. He said, “Many have shared that they appreciate the unified and strategic approach—it gives them a clearer sense of who we are in the Workers’ Compensation space. Having a more holistic view of trends in the industry makes conversations more valuable and helps carriers better understand how to align their products. Our carriers have noted that having dedicated points of contact who really understand the nuances of their appetite make a big difference.” He went on to describe the value of Bridge Specialty Group and Arrowhead together, collectively nimble enough to develop products that align with market needs. “It’s led to better submissions, stronger collaboration and ultimately, innovative solutions. Overall, this coordinated and intentional approach leads to better communication and more successful engagement with our retail agents.”

What are your thoughts about recruitment and training emerging young leaders?

It was clear when we asked Tim and Michele about the importance of training emerging leaders, they shared that the overall organization is in the recruitment and enhancement business. The Workers’ Compensation Practice Group is no exception. “I’m proud to say that no matter what is happening outside our office, we are always hiring and actively seeking talented individuals to join our team,” Tim said. “Across the country, we are engaging with recent graduates or those looking for a fresh start in a new industry. We’ve found that recruiting individuals with diverse backgrounds gives us a competitive advantage as it allows us to approach problem-solving and solution delivery creatively. Once we bring talent onboard, we work with them to develop a roadmap to achieve their professional goals. As a practice group, we’re fortunate to have teammates with collective decades of experience, and they find tremendous value in mentoring the next generation and paying it forward.” He continued, “Our teammates don’t only grow and learn from the expertise of the practice group, they also have an opportunity to learn from and collaborate with individuals across the organization. Our emphasis is on training and mentoring with the goal of developing brokers for niche markets like workers’ compensation.”

By combining the expertise of seasoned professionals with the enthusiasm and hunger of young individuals, the group creates a dynamic and effective team. This approach ensures that the industry will have a strong foundation of knowledgeable professionals for years to come.

Looking ahead

As the practice group continues to evolve, their focus remains on, as Tim said, “Continuing to bring our collective experience and broad market access to our retail customers with an easy and efficient experience when shopping for workers’ compensation solutions.” He followed that up with his excitement about the group’s future upside and the potential for even further increasing wins through collaboration.

For more information about the Bridge Specialty Workers’’ Compensation Practice Group, contact Tim Sullivan at [email protected]  or (212) 818 – 9572.

This material has been prepared for general informational purposes only, is intended to apply generally rather than to any specific company and presumes appropriate discretion will be exercised regarding any particular situation.

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