Bronze 2019 Best Agency to Work for Southeast

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Commitment to Culture

Those working for BKS-Partners aren’t just employees – they are referred to as colleagues company-wide, and they really love where they work.

More than 90 of the company’s 450-plus “colleagues” responded to Insurance Journal’s 2019 Best Agencies to Work For Survey and praised everything from the company’s founding partners to its open-door policy on communication to the opportunities BKS offers, both in and out of the office.

“Our co-founders are exceptional members of the insurance community who have brought together an astounding place to work and grow. They are not above every employee and can be found in the office on a regular basis,” said one respondent. “They truly have an ‘open door’ and want to be immersed in the culture that they have created … Their guidance and leadership has trickled down to make this firm the best place to work in insurance!”

“At BKS Partners we are not just workers. We are treated as people with lives outside of work. We are given the ability to take care of family if needed and are supported by our team,” wrote another.

Respondents said they are driven to go above and beyond for their clients at BKS because that is the company culture. Though the company has grown substantially and now has 40 offices in four states, it has never lost its mission.

“Our holistic approach allows us to offer our clients a one-stop shop for their insurance and risk management needs. In addition, our risk map approach allows us to identify gaps or issues in their current policies that they may not already be aware of,” said one employee.

A one-stop shop, an employee care center, the BKS Risk Map and program stewardship were just a handful of reasons that colleagues listed for how BKS sets itself apart from other agencies and why they are proud to work there.

Colleagues also praised the company’s commitment to its communities and work/life balance.

BKS-Partners’ colleagues participated in a bike building activity to support two local children’s homes during their annual Energy Retreat.

“Our agency has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Best Workplaces for Women,” said one respondent. “As a working mom with small children it is very important to me that my employer understands where I am in life right now. Two of our founding partners are mothers and I believe that is a contributing factor to our company culture that embraces women. At BKS Partners, we are also given multiple opportunities throughout the year to give back to our community in whatever area we choose to.

We have a strong commitment to building stronger communities and the joy we gain from [doing so] is immeasurable. We have a Colleagues In Action program that is focused on giving back to the communities we live and work in. BKS-Partners provides colleagues with support, time off and resources to get involved in our communities and causes that we are passionate about. This year, BKS-Partners also started the Passion Project, which gives colleagues the opportunity to submit an application to receive up to $1,500 to pursue a passion that they have not been able to do for one reason or another. Three colleagues were chosen earlier this year – one to visit Africa to assist with HopeAlive268, one to visit Hawaii to honor a late spouse and another to help startup a mobile community service project.”

BKS Co-Founder Laura Sherman said the company works to create an environment for its colleagues that “fosters inclusivity, encourages innovation and inspires creativity.”

“It’s an honor and a delight to know that our colleagues have nominated BKS-Partners as a 2019 Best Agency to Work For,” Sherman said. “Our culture is owned by everyone, and as a result, continues to evolve as we continue to bring on colleagues and expand geographies.”

Sherman says the management team works on developing and nurturing its company culture and at making its colleagues feel valued.

“We understand the impact culture has on our colleagues’ well-being, their passion for clients, their productivity and longevity,” she said.

Special Report: America’s Best Independent Insurance Agencies to Work For

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Topics Mergers & Acquisitions

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