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Higginbotham is expanding its reach.
Connell Insurance is joining the Fort Worth-based insurance, financial and HR services firm, the first agency in the state of Missouri to do so.
The deal adds a 14th state to Higginbotham's footprint and gives Connell Insurance increased customer support that includes loss control, employee benefit plan services and human resources. Connell Insurance is one of the largest and fastest growing locally-owned property/casualty insurance and employee benefits brokers in southwest Missouri.
Connell Insurance has two Missouri offices in Branson and Springfield, with a combined 38 employees with immediate plans to hire more to accommodate growth. It's led by practicing insurance and employee benefits consultants Casey Chastain, Jay Hickman, Tom Jensen, and Chase Marable.
Higginbotham is strategically growing to expand its reach and increase its service capability by selectively partnering with other independent agencies that have strong reputations in their local markets.
“We have offices in the states that border south Missouri, so we had our sight set on finding the right partner to help establish our presence there,” said Rusty Reid, Higginbotham chairman and CEO. “Connell Insurance being one of the fastest-growing insurance agencies in the region is what prompted our interest because obviously they're doing something right. The decision to cement our partnership was driven by their alignment with our people-first culture and forward-thinking attitude."
Higginbotham gave the title of managing director to all four of Connell Insurance's leaders, and they will continue guiding their team.
In November, Higginbotham established a second agency in Mobile, Alabama, joining with Burkholder Insurance, Inc., an independent broker of commercial and personal property/casualty insurance and bonds.
“We see Higginbotham as a larger version of our firm,” said Jensen. “We position ourselves as 'agents of change,' adapting to new market trends and evolving our model as the business environment changes. To be a long-term partner for our clients, change is essential, and joining Higginbotham is part of that strategy. The value-added services for our clients, the future growth opportunities for our firm and the ability to partner with a privately-held organization that offers employee ownership are all welcome changes."