Pros
4th Generation, 100 year old, family owned, independent agency with local and regional focus but national and international capabilities; Member of Assurex Global which expands our reach globally; Owners/Executives very active in community and encourage employees to get involved by allowing 24 hours of volunteer time each year; Employees know/interact personally with Executives on an almost daily basis; True work family atmosphere with great co-workers, many of whom have worked together for 15-20 years+; Benefits and salary ranges are very fair for a company of this size and reflective of experience and skill level; Frequent exciting and fun team-building activities, which include opportunities both intra-agency and virtual to include remotes (very creative Fun Committee); State of the art agency management system and access to other great industry tools and resources; Remote capabilities allowing work flexibility; Multi-generational staff with all levels of experience and expertise; Executives are extremely progressive and visionary; Appointed, well respected and supported by a wide range of carriers and brokers, both national and regional, that can accommodate most any type and size account. Large agency “feel” and capabilities without having to be part of a mega-agency conglomerate or national broker. They still believe that we’re in a “relationship” business!
Cons
Coastal location has hindered luring young talent as well as “seasoned” staff in years past. Remote capabilities for employees will hopefully open doors for new, aggressive, and experienced career minded professionals from other areas. Executives have always been focused on higher education, but not necessarily higher insurance education (or at least not at a national designation level recognized by our industry). Most everything has been focused regionally or specific carrier related. With the changes occurring in our industry and the marketplace, it is evident that this should be more of a focus for both our current employees and new hires; and management seems to be opening up to that. Both of these “cons” have put Wells at a disadvantage for attracting younger professionals who are trying to outline a clear career path, as well as older, more established professionals who are interested in further developing their careers and staying relevant in the industry. I believe the changes our Executives and Management Team are making will eliminate these “cons”! Fortunately the “Pros” definitely outweigh the “Cons”, even after 20+ years for me!!! Glad to be part of the team working toward the 5th Generation!!