Minimizing the Risks of an Agency Acquisition

Includes a Live Web Event on 08/27/2025 at 12:00 PM (EDT)

Thinking about acquiring an agency? In this strategic session, agents will learn how to confidently navigate the complexities of an acquisition while minimizing risk at every step.

You'll gain practical insight into:

Conducting thorough due diligence and risk assessments
Evaluating employment agreements and restrictive covenants
Identifying potential E&O, EPLI, and HR-related liabilities
Successfully integrating agency cultures and aligning producer/staff incentives

Whether you're planning your first acquisition or looking to sharpen your approach, this session equips you with the knowledge to make smarter decisions and drive long-term success.

Jeff Smith

Chief Executive Officer

Ohio Insurance Agents Association

Chief Executive Officer for Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA), a statewide association that is the leading advocate for insurance consumers, independent agents, IA carriers and a competitive insurance marketplace. OIA represents 1,400 independent insurance agencies and 12,000 insurance agents who are responsible for fulfilling 82 percent of the commercial insurance and 44 percent of the personal insurance and risk management needs of Ohio's businesses and citizens.

Craig Niess

Director of Business Planning and Valuation at Ohio Insurance Agents Association, Inc.

Accomplished manager with an extensive background in finance, marketing, operations, strategy, project management, data analysis and consulting. Experienced in developing, branding, and launching new products. Extensive experience in managing multiple projects, leading teams, and driving revenue growth. Problem solver, able to leverage knowledge and experience from a broad range of industries and functional areas to bring unique perspectives and creative solutions to business problems.

Mike Gibson

Director of Business Development

Superior Insurance Partners

Mike G. is the Director of Business Development or Mergers & Acquisitions at Superior Insurance Partners. Mike has been in this role for 3 years and was a territory sales manager for carriers for 9 years prior. Superior is the 52nd largest P&C agency.

Mike Schlotman

President

CAI Insurance Agency

Mike is the President of CAI, a fourth-generation insurance agency founded in 1955. Mike has been in the agency for 32 years and has successfully converted over 18 agency acquisitions.

Robb Armentrout

Commercial Lender

Osgood bank

Robb is a Commercial Loan Officer at Osgood Bank. He has been in banking for 29 years and has helped dozens of businesses including insurance agencies finance acquisitions.