Hear directly from Swannies about how the right coverage—and the right partner—can make all the difference.
Cox Insurance Announces Four New Partners
Cox Insurance is excited to announce the addition of four new partners: Derek Gruber, Ryan Swanson, Brian Trask, and Crosby Warren. This milestone marks an exciting new chapter in the firm’s evolution and reflects the continued progress in its ownership planning— long-term strategies designed to preserve and enhance the firm’s independence.
“As a third-generation, family-led business, we are deeply committed to staying fiercely independent,” said Taylor Cox, President. “Expanding shared ownership through thoughtful succession planning ensures that we remain strong, sustainable, and client-focused for generations to come.”
The formation of this newly named group of partners, along with our entire team of associates, represents the future of Cox Insurance—one rooted in our continued dedication to clients, communities, and carrier partners.
The Cox Insurance partnership model is rooted in family values, a collaborative spirit, and a belief in the power of employee ownership. This announcement reflects another step forward in building a durable, growth-oriented, and self-managing organization.
“We believe shared ownership strengthens our culture and reinforces our commitment to the people and communities we serve,” said Hanna Cox Connor. “We’re thrilled to welcome Crosby, Brian, Ryan, and Derek as partners as we continue to build something lasting together.”
Hiring: Technology & Systems Coordinator
Cox Insurance is a third-generation, family-owned company, passionate about helping families and businesses reach their goals and feel confident they are protected. We have an exceptional team that works collaboratively to provide the best guidance and ongoing support in the industry. We handle insurance-related matters by developing a comprehensive plan to assist with lifestyle changes, claims, and everything in between. We believe in going the extra mile for our clients and treating them as if they were our own family. We are looking for someone with a customer-centric mindset to join our team.
Role Overview
As the Technology and System Coordinator, you will be a key member of our Operations team; responsible for overseeing and optimizing the technology platforms and systems that drive our agency’s day-to-day functions. You will lead efforts to improve operational workflows, ensure cybersecurity and system integrity, and support teams across departments with technology solutions. This role requires a strategic mindset combined with hands-on management to enhance overall experience for both clients and employees.
You will thrive in a fast-paced environment where multiple priorities intersect, and your success will be measured by your ability to improve efficiency, maintain system reliability, and foster cross-functional collaboration.
What YOU are good at
- Managing multiple technology platforms – the most important being our client management system Applied Epic
- Leading cybersecurity and AI initiatives to keep our systems secure, modern and forward thinking
- Collaborating with leadership and vendors to align technology with strategic business goals
- Communicating clearly and professionally with internal teams and external partners
- Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues quickly and effectively
- Overseeing hardware inventory and conference room technology to ensure smooth daily operations
- Administering internal communication tools such as Screencloud, Microsoft Teams and Sharepoint
- Analyzing data and generating performance insights that help guide smart leadership decisions
- Working independently while supporting a collaborative, team first culture
What WE are good at
- We protect lifestyles
- We are guides
- We give a damn
The Extras we offer (besides pay!)
- Competitive salary ($80,000 – $100,000 dependent on experience)
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid sabbatical based on tenure
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Professional development and training support
- Wellness amenities
- Team meals and events
Equal Opportunity Employer
Cox Insurance provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sex (including pregnancy), personal appearance, genetic information, economic background, political affiliation, marital status, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, place of residence or business, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
To Apply
Send a resume and cover letter to Susan Cox, Talent Director at [email protected].
Cox Insurance Celebrates 75 Years of Excellence and Innovation in the Insurance Industry
Cox Insurance is proud to commemorate its 75th anniversary, marking a legacy of exceptional service, community engagement, and industry leadership since its founding in 1950. This milestone celebrates decades of trusted relationships with clients and a steadfast commitment to protecting what matters most.
Over the past 75 years, Cox Insurance has evolved from a small local agency to a regional leader in the insurance sector, offering a comprehensive range of personal and commercial insurance solutions. Through its innovative approach and dedication to customer satisfaction, Cox Insurance has maintained a reputation for integrity, adaptability, and forward-thinking solutions.
“As we reflect on 75 years in business, we are incredibly grateful for the trust our clients have placed in us and the dedication of our team members,” said Taylor Cox, President. “This anniversary is not just a celebration of our history but also a moment to look forward to a future filled with new opportunities and continued service to our community.”
To commemorate this remarkable milestone, Cox Insurance is hosting a series of events, including a series of lunchtime interviews with current and former employees who have been pivotal to the agency’s success. These initiatives will highlight the stories, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped the agency over the years.
The agency remains deeply committed to its founding principles of personalized service and community involvement. In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Cox Insurance is reaffirming its dedication to supporting the community and strengthening connections with those it serves.
New law shortens defensive driving classes
A law going into effect July 1 shortens classes for first-time participants from eight hours to four, matching the same length of refresher courses that drivers seeking to keep their state-mandated 10% discount on their auto insurance premiums must take every three years.
For more information, check out this article “New law shortens defensive driving classes for seniors taking it for the first time” from the StarTribune.
Navigating the 2024 Insurance Market
The insurance industry has recently entered a period of “market hardening” which means:
- Premiums are higher,
- Carriers are stricter with their underwriting standards, and
- Carriers are reducing the number of policies they will take on.
As a result, insurance is more expensive and harder to obtain.
Undoubtedly you’ve experienced a rise in premiums or changes to coverages at your time of renewal. Let us help try to explain what is going on…
What is fueling the rise in insurance costs?
Weather-Related Disasters
The increase in catastrophic weather events has put a huge strain on the insurance market.
- In 2023, there were 24 weather events with industry payouts of over $1 billion each. To put this into perspective, between 1980 and 2022 the annual average number of events was 8.1. Between 2018-2022 the number was 18.1 events.
- 2023 was the most severe year for convective storm activity on record and included $92.9 billion in weather-related losses.
- Since 2008, there has not been a single year with less than $10 billion in losses from convective storms.
U.S. 2023 Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters
In order to be financially viable, insurance carriers have had to reassess their client portfolios.
For more information on insurance and weather-related events, read the Wall Street Journal article that reports on “huge losses from national disasters prompt industry to jack up prices and pull back from some markets; ‘worst possible scenario’ for consumers.”
Increased Construction & Labor Costs
Supply-chain disruption, labor shortages, and costlier replacement parts are all contributing to current and future loss pressures.
Increased cost of materials for home and auto repairs along with weather-related catastrophes and other factors have forced the insurance industry to raise rates.
Inflation
Inflation also plays a factor. Even though the media buzz around inflation has died down, many policyholders are still experiencing rate increases at the time of their renewal. This is partly because the insurance industry lags 12-18 months behind due to the lengthy process to declare, file, and implement rate changes in response to market conditions.
Additional Factors
There are a multitude of other factors that are contributing to the perfect storm of insurance vulnerability, including:
- Increased cost of reinsurance
- Regulatory changes
- “Social inflation” including a propensity for legal action and verdicts with large payouts
How are carriers responding?
Insurance companies are now dealing with client portfolios that are increasingly unprofitable and unsustainable. Market conditions have forced many carriers to take action to preserve their financial ratings.
Some things we’ve seen carriers do:
- Increase premiums
- Restrict the acceptance of new business
- Restrict product offerings
- Announce mass layoffs
- Restructure their business model due to poor underwriting results
- Exit the personal lines market altogether
These changes have resulted in many challenges for the insured.
How can Cox Insurance be your guide?
Every day we are working directly with clients to help them understand what is going on and work together to find the best solutions. With access to an array of carriers, we can advocate to get you the best coverage for the best value.
Regardless of market conditions, we will always be here for you! Please do not hesitate to set up a phone call with us to discuss your specific situation.
