Higginbotham's Growth as a Leading Independent Insurance Brokerage
Higginbotham, once a modest insurance agency founded in Fort Worth in 1948, now stands as one of the largest independent insurance brokerages in the United States, employing over 4,500 people across more than 150 offices in 19 states.
Despite its expansive growth, Higginbotham remains focused on nurturing a workplace culture that emphasizes employee well-being and engagement. This dedication has not gone unnoticed, as reflected in the company's recognition in the Best Agency to Work For survey. Rusty Reid, Chairman and CEO, highlighted the significant number of employee nominations as a testament to their thriving work environment.
The organization's ethos, deeply rooted in employee ownership since 1989, offers workers a financial stake in the company's success. This model, initiated when Reid assumed leadership, fosters accountability and dedication among employees, uniting their efforts with the firm's goals.
Comprehensive Services and Professional Development
Higginbotham extends beyond traditional insurance by offering a suite of services across business and personal insurance, employee benefits, retirement planning, and risk management. The "Day Two Services" initiative exemplifies their commitment to providing continuous support to clients.
The brokerage invests in its workforce through various professional development programs, such as the summer internship, HIGG U for technical training, and the Producer Academy for sales skills enhancement. Additionally, the learning management system offers ongoing educational opportunities, ensuring employees have clear pathways for career advancement.
Community Engagement and Corporate Responsibility
Central to Higginbotham's philosophy is a strong sense of community involvement. The Higginbotham Community Fund has facilitated over $21 million in donations to local nonprofits, demonstrating how the company's success is intertwined with its communities. This philanthropic approach not only supports local causes but also strengthens employee engagement through shared values and cooperative spirit.
- Founded: 1948 in Fort Worth, Texas
- Employee Ownership: Initiated in 1989
- Offices: Over 150 in 19 states
- Employees: More than 4,500
- Community Contributions: $21 million to nonprofits
This robust blend of expansive service offerings, focused employee development, and community philanthropy forms the backbone of Higginbotham's continued growth and industry leadership. By maintaining a balance between business success and social responsibility, it sets a noteworthy example for others in the insurance industry.