Building Something That Matters: Ansay & Associates

“You have to give to get.”

When Adolph Ansay opened Ansay & Associates in 1946, that family mantra guided his approach to business. So, he poured his time, resources, and heart not only into improving the Midwestern land he called home but also into serving his community.

Nearly eight decades later, that spirit persists. And for the second straight year, Ansay & Associates won the Silver Award in the Midwest region of Insurance Journal’s Best Agency to Work For contest.

Ansay rose to the top on its dedication to employees and clients. Many of the independent agency’s team members praised leadership for their focus on both internal and external relationships and commitment to volunteer outreach.

“I believe Ansay to be one of the most innovative and people-centric agencies out there,” an employee said in their survey response. “Executive leadership consistently demonstrates a focus on stewardship of their people and with their resources. Ansay seeks to be innovative in their approach to technology and talent development, which I feel contributes to an overall focus on agency growth.”

The Port Washington, Wisconsin, agency has grown to serve more than 14,000 businesses and 35,000 individual customers across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Upper Michigan, and Florida. The business is known for the trademarked Ansay Approach–a relationship-driven and solutions-oriented philosophy fueled by grasping and addressing each customer’s unique needs.

The approach begins by identifying and understanding client needs and exposures and continues by developing and offering strategies to address the needs, exposures, and issues identified. Ansay designs and implements tailored programs to meet client needs and makes proactive changes as needed. This mindful methodology seemingly extends to the agency’s treatment of staff. Many employees shared that the agency excels at recognizing and appreciating hard work and creating an environment that values work-life balance.

“We have a supportive, collaborative team that genuinely cares about each other and about our clients,” a respondent said. “Leadership is approachable, open to new ideas, and committed to helping employees grow in their careers. I appreciate that we’re encouraged to share input, improve processes, and take initiative, which makes the work feel meaningful.”

Beyond professional growth, employees also value Ansay’s emphasis on volunteerism.

Respondents shared that the agency has a policy that provides paid time each year to enable employees to give back to causes close to their hearts. One employee shared that this initiative supports community engagement and allows workers to make a meaningful impact outside of their day-to-day responsibilities.

“I’m proud to work for an organization that encourages us to contribute to something bigger than ourselves,” they said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a workplace that supports both personal growth and community involvement.”

According to its website, Ansay & Associates remains among the largest and fastest-growing independent insurance agencies in Wisconsin. It is now led by Adolph’s son, Mike Ansay. Mike told Insurance Journal that the agency is built on trust, service, and long-term partnerships that protect what matters most to its clients.

The business’ leadership has learned that culture isn’t created through slogans but through daily actions. Supporting mental and physical health, encouraging community involvement, and fostering growth opportunities all make a difference, Mike said.

“Our leadership philosophy is rooted in servant leadership,” he explained. “We remove barriers, listen closely, and empower our people to succeed. That’s the Ansay way: put people first, and everything else follows.”

Employees today want more than a paycheck, Mike added. They want purpose, flexibility, and a sense of belonging. The best workplaces listen and respond to what their teams need, he said.

“There’s no better compliment than one that comes from within,” Mike shared when asked about the Best Agencies to Work For award. “When our own people say Ansay & Associates is a great place to work, it tells us we’re living our values.”