Shepherd Insurance

Agency Spotlight: Shepherd Insurance

For over 35 years, Shepherd Insurance, formerly Al Purmort Insurance, has established itself as one of the largest and most respected independent insurance agencies in all of Florida. Their mission is to provide cost-effective solutions that allow their clients an affordable and comprehensive insurance program. Shepherd Insurance was started in Carmel, IN, in 1977 and now employs over 450 professionals. With over 35 offices in six states, Shepherd is a privately-owned and operated agency that writes business in all 50 states. Shepherd has earned consistent industry recognition, such as #1 Top Workplace, INC 5000 Fastest Growing Companies and Top Elite Insurance Agencies by Insurance Business America.

Six years ago, Al Purmort Insurance merged into the Shepherd Insurance Family. This opportunity has allowed them to provide clients and prospects with the necessary resources and expertise to grow. “One of the main reasons we joined the Shepherd Family was that we saw our clients growing, and we wanted to grow with them,” says Executive Partner Patrick Del Medico. “We have maintained our local ownership while supporting the community and nonprofits we are so passionate about.”

In addition to the local support here in Florida, Shepherd Insurance has a national presence through their Operation Shepherding Program. Operation Shepherding is a companywide initiative to support the local communities where their employees and clients live and work. They encourage the entire team to look for opportunities to pay it forward and to be actively involved in the community. All employees are given two days off work each year to volunteer with the organization of their choice.

One of the main things that has helped Shepherd Insurance continue to grow is the great partner relationships with carriers. “Olympus is always one step ahead of the game,” says Del Medico. “They have a great quoting system for our agents, which makes servicing our clients much easier. Their hold times are short, which is unheard of in the insurance world right now. Their Underwriters are friendly and knowledgeable, not to mention the coverages and packages they offer are superb!”

The entire Shepherd Insurance team appreciates the support they get from their marketing rep, Nate Kochilaris. He is dedicated, smart and personable, and a true partner. The marketing reps are always a wealth of knowledge and extremely resourceful. “From a Claims management standpoint, we know our clients are in the best hands and always receive A+ service. A true reflection of a dedicated carrier,” adds Del Medico.

Building relationships doesn’t stop at clients and carriers. Shepherd Insurance’s success starts with the relationships between employees. “Our Team works hard and plays hard. Not a day or week goes by that our employees aren’t celebrating a win. We are super passionate about each other and treat each other like family.” says Del Medico. “I think that is what really separates what we do here, and it resonates with our clients as well.”

When you combine resources, expertise, employee happiness and community involvement, it is a winning recipe! “We are fortunate to have this great team with upstanding values and incredible passion for the business. They are consistently challenging themselves to improve and succeed in everything they do at Shepherd Insurance. Our team strives to accomplish our ultimate goal of developing and maintaining long-term relationships with our clients while ensuring we keep both their businesses and families protected,” Del Medico concludes. “Having Olympus as a partner, allows us to deliver those commitments to our clients.”