Higginbotham, an independent insurance, financial services and human resources firm, has announced a partnership with Turner & Associates Insurance of Brunswick, Ga.

Higginbotham Chairman and CEO Rusty Reed said the partnership will help strengthen the company’s commitment to the state as well as the Southeast region.

“We are proud to partner with a regional star,” Reed said.

Turner & Associates is licensed in 42 states, Reed said, which shows its growth from a community agency. The insurance company also has specialized accounts and practices for nonprofits, construction and hospitality.

“Turner has a great team who always put service first and go out of their way to help every customer,” said Reid.

Robert Turner, president of Turner & Associates, said the company’s team is able to stand up to other teams in the industry.

“We have been an Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (IIABA) and Reagan Consulting Best Practices Agency for eight years — and last year they ranked us as a top performer in our revenue range,” said Turner. “It all comes down to our people: they answer the phone when it rings, answer your questions expertly, and expertly handle any challenges.”

Cheryl Cruz, COO and Personal Lines Manager at Turner & Associates, expressed her thoughts on the importance of the firm’s team as well as the value Higginbotham will bring to the table following the partnership.

“When we find great people, we want them to stay with us. The best way to do that is to make them business partners. In the past, we’ve been able to do that with some team members, but with Higginbotham on board, we can do it with everyone,” Cruz said.

Garrett Bridges, managing director of Turner & Associates, said the partnership with Higginbotham brought new opportunities and resources to clients.

“We are now able to offer comprehensive benefits packages to our commercial clients. I am also excited about the new insurance resources and claims management services. And of course, there is Higginbotham’s Day 2 services, which will help us maintain a proactive and responsive relationship with our clients throughout the life of each policy,” said Bridges.

Turner added that the partnership will enhance the existing relationship between customers and the company.

“We’re not going to change who we are,” he said. “We’re still going to provide the same level of local, human connection and fast service, because that’s what Higginbotham stands for, too.”

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