Our Story
At Backes & Barnett Group, we believe great insurance starts, and ends, with service.
We specialize in Commercial Insurance, Property & Casualty, and Workers’ Compensation for organizations that expect more than just a policy. Our clients value responsiveness, expertise, and follow-through, and that’s exactly what we deliver.
Built on a Different Standard
Mitch Backes and Dan Barnett learned the independent agency business at a time when serving the client wasn’t just a priority, it was the standard.
That meant:
- Doing what you said you would do
- Delivering proactive, expert advice
- Building trust through consistency and action
- Supporting clients long after the policy was placed
Over time, the industry has shifted. Consolidation, mergers, and acquisitions have changed the landscape. Many agencies that once defined service have been absorbed into larger organization, where the focus often becomes growth at scale, doing more with less, and prioritizing new business over existing relationships.
We see it differently.
Why We Started Backes & Barnett Group
Backes & Barnett Group was created to return to what works: putting the client first, every time.
We believe new relationships are essential to any organization’s growth. But we refuse to pursue that growth at the expense of the clients who have trusted us over the years.
Our commitment is simple:
We will continue to deliver on every promise of service, advocacy, and expertise that built our careers.
For clients who have noticed the shift in the industry, we offer something increasingly rare, a hands-on, accountable, relationship-driven approach.
The Right Team at the Right Time
We’re bringing together a team of experienced, like-minded professionals who believe the industry needs to return to a higher standard of service. Simply put, we’re building an A-team, focused on delivering A-level results for clients who value it.
Our Approach
We don’t just place coverage, we partner with our clients.
This means:
- Understanding your organization and its risks
- Providing clear, strategic guidance
- Being available and responsive when it matters most
- Advocating for you at every stage of the insurance process
Backed by Strength
Backes & Barnett Group, of Robertson Ryan Insurance, provides our clients access to the resources, markets, and capabilities of a larger organization, without sacrificing the personalized service of a dedicated team.