TrueNorth Companies, L.C., a risk management and insurance brokerage firm, has announced the establishment of its new community practice dedicated to serving the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City corridor. This initiative, according to a media release, aims to enhance the firm’s engagements and solutions tailored to local businesses and individuals.
Stu Haker, executive vice president of risk management at TrueNorth, emphasized the strategic focus of the new division. “Our Community Practice will focus on intentionally engaging and serving businesses – both large and small – right here, in our greater region,” he said. “We aim to provide regional businesses with the partnership and resources to overcome market challenges and adversity, explore what’s possible and ultimately achieve new heights.”
The company notes the practice will offer a suite of services, focusing on benefits planning and workforce solutions, among other areas. Kyle Mertz, executive vice president of benefits at TrueNorth, highlighted the critical balance businesses must maintain today.
“Today’s business leaders face the daunting task of balancing financial goals and aspirations against the cost of supporting a healthy and productive workforce,” Mertz explained. “TrueNorth’s Community Practice provides businesses and individuals with a true connection to all our integrated solutions and advisors, including those with expertise in benefits planning, workforce solutions and more.”
The Community Practice team will be led by Chad Smeby (pictured), who joins TrueNorth with nearly 25 years of insurance and leadership experience. The team also includes Nikki Wilcox (pictured) as a strategic development consultant, bringing her deep community ties and 15 years of leadership and communication experience. Abby Scheitlin (pictured), who has been with TrueNorth since June 2022 and formerly a benefits consultant, will also serve as a strategic development consultant, focusing on community engagement and relationship building.
Jason Smith, CEO of TrueNorth, shared his vision for the impact of this new endeavor. “On our quest to positively impact millions of lives, we approach the next five years with clarity, confidence and curiosity to explore what’s possible,” said Smith. “The establishment of our Community Practice demonstrates commitment to our community’s future as a resource, industry leader and partner.”
TrueNorth, headquartered in Cedar Rapids with additional offices in Illinois and Colorado, has affirmed its commitment to its closely held and privately held business model. The firm’s approach focuses on organic growth and internal perpetuation.
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