Robertson Ryan Named Insurance Journal’s Best Agency to Work For in the Nation
October 28, 2025
Robertson Ryan Insurance has been recognized by Insurance Journal as the Best Agency to Work For in the United States.
Last year, Robertson Ryan earned the title of Best Agency to Work For in the Midwest. This year, the firm went one step further, receiving the national honor — a reflection of its people-first culture and ongoing commitment to creating an environment where associates and agent owners can thrive.
This recognition is particularly meaningful because it was driven by the voices of Robertson Ryan employees and agent owners, who provided candid feedback through an extensive Insurance Journal survey. Their honest insights and heartfelt comments helped distinguish the agency on a national level.
“This validates that We Walk Our Talk. Always,” said Chris Illman, Chief Executive Officer. “It’s our commitment to each other to do our best work, live our best lives, and fulfill our purpose together. We realize it’s a never-ending journey, but it will always be our North Star — being a Great Place to Work with phenomenal people, all being our authentic selves.”
A Culture That Stands Apart
Allan Degner, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications, shared that the recognition feels especially rewarding because it came directly from those who live the company’s culture every day.
“As a leadership team we feel deeply honored and grateful,” said Degner. “Nominations like this mean more than external validation. They show that the values we’ve worked to build, and the culture we strive for every day, have truly resonated with our people. It’s incredibly satisfying to know that the compassion, dedication, and authenticity of our agents and associates are being recognized by those who live it.”
Degner continued, “We’ve built a culture rooted in trust, empowerment, and authenticity. We are a national agency that operates with the feel of a close-knit firm. We have the resources to take care of our people, but we do it with genuine, personal touches that make a difference.”
What Makes Robertson Ryan Unique
Several factors distinguish Robertson Ryan from other agencies nationwide:
- Agent-Owner Model: Each agent owns their book of business, fostering accountability, entrepreneurial spirit, and personal investment in client relationships.
- Trusted Advisor Role: The firm partners with clients to craft tailored, cost-effective programs across business, personal, benefits, and financial services — serving as long-term advisors who care.
- Commitment to People and Purpose: From flexible work options and generous benefits to professional development and community engagement, Robertson Ryan invests in its people and the places they live and serve.
Since its founding in 1960, Robertson Ryan has grown from a Milwaukee-based agency into a Top 100 U.S. insurance firm serving more than 70,000 clients nationwide. Alongside this national honor from Insurance Journal, the company has also been recognized as a Top Workplace by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for the past three consecutive years and was recently named a BizTimes Future 50 Firm for its continued growth and community impact.
Voices from Within
In the Insurance Journal feature, employees described Robertson Ryan as collaborative, authentic, and empowering:
“I feel trusted and empowered to do my job in a way that fits my strengths. That trust makes all the difference.”
— Commercial Account Executive
“The leadership team truly listens. They don’t just talk about culture, they invest in it.”
— Personal Lines Team Lead
“I’ve never worked for a company that blends professionalism with genuine care like Robertson Ryan does.”
— Operations Coordinator
A Shared Achievement
“This recognition came from within, and that’s what makes it special,” said Degner. “It reflects the energy, teamwork, and commitment that make Robertson Ryan not just a great place to work, but a great place to grow, give back, and belong.”
“We’re proud of this recognition,” Illman added. “But even more proud of what it represents, that our people feel connected, respected, and inspired. That’s the greatest measure of success.”