Insurance Business has published its inaugural Top BDMs for Outstanding Service 2026 report, recognizing business development managers (BDMs) in the US insurance market based on feedback from brokers across the country.
The report highlights the role BDMs play in supporting broker relationships, particularly in commercial insurance placements where they act as a link between brokers and insurers. Brokers rely on BDMs to help navigate insurer organizations, provide support when placements become more complex, and maintain long-term working relationships.
The recognition is based on a nationwide research process that assessed BDM performance across several service and technical criteria.
The IBA research team conducted a national survey and interview process to identify BDMs who received consistent support from insurance brokers. As part of the methodology, brokers were invited to nominate business development managers based on five evaluation criteria:
More than 200 nominations were submitted during the research period. After reviewing the responses, 18 business development managers received high ratings across all five categories and were included in the Top BDMs for Outstanding Service 2026 report.
The rankings are based solely on broker feedback gathered during the research process.
The report notes that the relationship between brokers and business development managers can influence commercial insurance placements, particularly when brokers require access to underwriting teams or assistance with complex risks. Brokers depend on BDMs to navigate insurer structures, advocate internally when placements become more challenging, and provide ongoing support throughout long-term business relationships.
The evaluation framework reflected these responsibilities by placing equal emphasis on service standards, communication, technical knowledge, and market expertise.
Among those recognized in the inaugural report are:
The complete list of recipients is available in Insurance Business America’s Top BDMs for Outstanding Service 2026 special report.
