TrueNorth Companies | Value Report 2022-23

We a re on a que s t t o positively i mpact milli o ns of l ives .

clarity confidence commitment courage

we are on a quest to positively impact millions of lives

WELCOME TO OUR 2022-2023 VALUE REPORT!

We value our relationship with you, and we aspire to offer guidance and direction as you advance along life’s journey.

Rooted in our vision, mission, and purpose, TrueNorth continues to grow, adapt, evolve and thrive. Over the past 20 years, TrueNorth has shown me that when sound, unwavering direction meets innovation and curiosity, therein lies opportunity. It’s this pursuit that inspires and fuels our quest to positively impact millions of lives.

As I reflect on 2022 and look to the year ahead, these four words feel especially significant: Clarity. Confidence. Commitment. Courage.

impact

Clarity to focus energy on what truly matters. Confidence in key resources and trusted relationships. Commitment to a vision that fosters connection and inspires action. Courage and fortitude to persevere and stay the course.

To me, these are the elements of impact; and when put into practice, these principles allow us to overcome challenge, generate positive energy and inspire action.

Once again, I thank you for the trust and confidence you place in our organization. It is our honor to be on this journey with you and we look forward to the lasting impact we’ll make together.

Cheers to the journey ahead!

Jason D. Smith Chief Executive Officer

Insurance is just the beginning -

TrueNorth unlocks potential for our clientsand you’ll find that every one of our colleagues play an important role in delivering that value.

TRENT TILLMAN, PRESIDENT & CRO

client impact positive

client impact positive

specialization yields unwavering direction our clients

INSURANCE IS JUST THE BEGINNING.

As an insurance broker, our philosophy is our mission: TrueNorth assists companies and people with protecting and maximizing their assets, resources and opportunities – in short, the things that matter and make a difference in the lives of those we encounter.

This is the lens with which we create solutions and how we can say with confidence that our impact transcends the bottom line. An engagement with TrueNorth is much more than cost savings – we provide impactful solutions and extended resources that foster security and support your aspirations.

Trent Tillman President & Chief Revenue Officer

a plan for the unprecedented PERSONAL SOLUTIONS

who’s advocating for you?

Home and auto insurance are often purchased with the hope that these policies are never used – and as a result, the insurance industry is renowned for prioritizing price at the expense of coverage, quality and service. Our philosophy is different, we are here to prepare you for the unexpected. We are also here to support you if the unfortunate occurs. While cost does matter, the best possible outcome for you and your family after suffering a loss serves as our compass.

Our approach rang true in Colorado. On New Years Eve of 2021, a devasting “forest fire within a metropolis” now known as the Marshall Fire ravaged northern suburbs of Denver, Colorado. Over 1,000 homes were destroyed with hundreds more damaged. This

The impact of a Risk Profile:

1,352 personal risk reviews conducted in 2022. During the review process, our Personal Solutions

Specialists examine each policy to identify possible gaps in coverage and advise our clients on a plan that protects them on their journey through life.

unprecedented event spotlighted our approach:

1 3

Risk Profile = Advise & Architect: Resulted in appropriate coverage levels to rebuild in times when labor shortages and building supplies drove construction costs exorbitantly high.

2

Communication and Accessibility: Our colleagues went to work immediately actively contacting potentially impacted clients via email and mobile phone. We even launched a social media campaign in recognition some families may have lost connectivity.

Advocacy: Throughout the rebuilding efforts our teams have collaborated with clients, insurance companies, their contractors, and local municipalities to navigate the claims,

increased construction costs, backlogs for permits and inspections as well as changes in building codes.

Together, we architect and implement solutions, so you’re equipped to successfully navigate the unexpected. We face the unfortunate situation together, and work to get you back on the track you were on before your loss occurred.

a plan set into action

CYBER SOLUTIONS

Our team of Cyber Specialists is comprised of the expertise of insurance technicians with the knowledge and resources of IT security consultants to help our clients transfer cyber risk, reduce the likelihood of a breach, and increase post-breach resilience.

IMPACT STORY: State University of Iowa Foundation / University of Iowa Center for Advancement

Amid a hardening cyber insurance market, the University of Iowa Center for Advancement found themselves in a situation familiar to many other organizations come renewal time: working through a difficult and time-consuming technical questionnaire, strict underwriting requirements with crucial coverages being lowered or even excluded, and the potential for a large premium increase. Upon engaging TrueNorth’s Cyber Solutions team for assistance, a plan was set into action.

THE OUTCOME:

Our dedicated Cyber Specialists offered clarity and resources to help

Did you know?

The human element is the most common cyber threat vector; it was the root cause of 82% of data breaches.

UICA prioritize the necessary security controls and strategies for a positive outcome.

The team then advocated for UICA in the insurance marketplace using industry expertise and benchmarking tools, ultimately delivering a customized insurance policy that UICA could be confident in. Saving time and spending less on cyber insurance made a significant impact, but the partnership continued after the renewal process.

While strengthening their formal Incident Response Plan, UICA called on TrueNorth’s cyber team to secure the involvement of one of the Nation’s top cybersecurity law firms and breach coaches as an additional line of defense to prepare for 2023 and beyond.

“ TrueNorth’s team was hugely instrumental throughout the cyber insurance process and beyond. From talking through our fears of the current marketplace to offering detailed assistance with complex applications to securing renewal options that were fair and timely, it was very easy to recognize TrueNorth’s value and the benefits received from their professionalism. We also can’t brag enough about TrueNorth’s customer service and their ability to keep this complex industry approachable. We are grateful for their continued partnership!”

Diane Brownlee, Vice President for Legal University of Iowa Center for Advancement

our Cyber Solutions.

Source: Verizon’s "2022 Data Breach Investigations Report."

solutions designed to unlock business growth and potential

BENEFIT SOLUTIONS

does your current benefits plan empower your workforce and support your growth trajectory?

We believe it should. Our Benefits team is driven to challenge the status quo, helping employers across industries manage risk with knowledgeable and personalized guidance every step of the way.

IMPACT STORY: Owen Industries

A leader in steel processing since 1885, Owen Industries has successfully navigated nearly 140 years of evolutionary change in their workforce. While their commitment to industryleading benefits had always been a key component of their workforce strategy, they found themselves questioning the perceived value and subsequent

return-on-investment associated with these offerings. The time had come to explore what’s possible.

THE OUTCOME:

With both organizations championing client-centric and growth-minded cultures, the leadership of Owen Industries and TrueNorth immediately set to work modernizing Owen’s offerings and gaining deeper insight into what matters to their employees. Through this engagement, the organization’s leadership identified ways to enhance existing offerings, improve communication and awareness, and empower Owen employees and their families to take ownership in healthcare decisions.

Simply put, TrueNorth offers “legendary service”

- they have exceeded all our expectations! I appreciate TrueNorth’s passion and drive, going above and beyond to deliver strategic and innovative solutions that transform our approach to health and benefits planning, thus reducing costs without sacrificing quality. We are happy to say that we now have an advocate in our corner; a broker-partner that proactively and effectively addresses our health care coverage needs, providing options that align with the needs of our business and more importantly, meet the needs of our valued employees.”

Ron DeBord, Chief Human Resources Officer, Owen Industries

More on TrueNorth’s Benefit Solutions are just a scan away.

introducing The Community Advantage Consortium℠

A NEW PERSPECTIVE we asked ourselves “what if? ”

What if we could develop a solution to funding employer-offered healthcare that reduced the cost of coverage while increasing quality of care?

What if we could get employers closer to the table with care providers so they could offer insight into what matters to their business and their workforce?

What if we could strengthen the relationship between employers and employees via the employer’s healthcare offerings?

What if we could foster healthier lifestyles and better-educated consumers within an employer’s population of employees and their loved ones?

What if we could increase access to patient care and enhance the caliber of care for employees and their loved ones?

After years of

The Community Advantage Consortium intends to bridge a longstanding gap between employers and medical care providers. In addition to health care collaborations, the consortium provides a forum for growth-minded employers to discuss emerging trends and share innovative colleague-centric strategies.

obstacles, we know now that we can.

In 2022, TrueNorth launched The Community Advantage Consortium℠ in partnership with Captive Health and Captive Paradigm Group. This consortium is the first of its kind in the Midwest, as it brings like-minded employers together to collaboratively solve the healthcare riddle alongside thought leaders in the insurance, medical, wellness, technology, communication and employee advocacy fields.

SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES:

•A more transparent and involved means for participating employers to build and finance healthcare programs.

• An advanced technology platform that connects users to medical providers and creates efficient access points to round-the-

clock national care, empowering users to make informed selections based on quality, cost, and access.

•Progressive business intelligence capabilities generate integrated data that employers can leverage to improve outcomes, reduce costs, and gain heightened awareness to employee health, wellness and safety improvement opportunities.

• Established collaboration between participating employers and partnering thought leaders designed to foster collective awareness around innovative strategies and solutions for future consideration.

Launching the Community Advantage Consortium among businesses in the Eastern Iowa Corridor is just the beginning. And TrueNorth intends to replicate the program’s success in other areas and industries.

Scan here to learn more about this unique initiative.

envisioning, debating, negotiating, and overcoming

Dr. Tim Sagers, President Captive Health

making an impact across industries

ROOTED. GROUNDED. COMMITTED.

TrueNorth’s Agribusiness Team is partnering with companies to shift mindsets and elevate insurance from a mere purchasing exercise to a strategic approach to managing and financing risk.

AGRIBUSINESS IMPACT STORY : Key Cooperative

A member-owned, rural Iowa cooperative, Key Cooperative serves agriculture producers specializing in agronomy, energy, feed, and grain. The organization was facing a hard insurance market in the wake of a substantial derecho storm loss.

To meet industry demand, the organization was looking for a broker that took pride in service and communication. They were also eager to work with a partner that could present strategic options and support mitigating risk:

Resource: Taking time to inventory their pain points and listen, our team adjusted Key Cooperative’s limits and deductibles to better fit their risk appetite and match their finance needs.

THE OUTCOME:

Guidance: TrueNorth provides strategic risk finance options with benchmarks that allow Key Cooperative leaders to make an informed decision. We moved them into a large deductible/alternative risk financing position for their work comp with the opportunity to save them a significant amount of money.

Did you know? TrueNorth is conducting an Alternative Risk study involving more than 20 co-ops across the United States.

Lane and his team have proven to be indispensable partners throughout the process. They are extremely professional, remarkably organized, highly accessible, and refreshingly candid in their approach. Lane and his team continue to be proactive in pursuing opportunities that will strategically improve our risk management profile going forward.”

Boyd Brodie General Manager

“

impacting an enterprise

TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY

TRANSPORTATION IMPACT STORY: Vorto

In search of coverage options to offer their network of independent contractor (IC) drivers, Vorto elected to leverage TrueNorth’s integrated technology platform, TNTruck℠. While Vorto’s industry-leading tech provides a competitive edge to its shippers and carriers, integrating TNTruck would allow them to streamline IC onboarding and facilitate insurance program procurement.

THE OUTCOME:

TrueNorth’s TNTruck platform is designed to transform how transportation companies onboard ICs and facilitate enrollment of insurance and non-insurance products, a process that is complex, demands accuracy and is unique to each motor carrier. In a matter of weeks, TrueNorth launched Vorto’s custom portal, empowering ICs to manage coverage

in real time and augmenting Vorto’s existing suite of programs and services. While IC count changes from day to day, TrueNorth’s fully integrated technology enables the automation of IC insurance procurement, termination, and reconciliation, ensuring enrollment and billing accuracy. Through this process, TrueNorth was also able to identify and reconcile historical data, yielding substantial savings.

With even more integration in queue for 2023, Vorto will soon unveil automated deployment of their IC Operating Agreement, enrollment processes for all facilitated non-insurance programs (e.g., third-party tax and accounting services) and settlement deduction processes for all IC insurance and non-insurance programs.

Working with TrueNorth has streamlined our team’s efficiencies and bolstered our ability to extend the beneficiaries of our transformational automation technology beyond our shippers and carriers but also to independent contractors. Integrating our industry -leading technology with TNTruck has seamlessly improved our internal efficiencies and has enriched the client experience for independent contractors that rely on the Vorto platform to do business.”

Troy Lee, General Counsel Vorto, LLC

Scan to learn more about our dedication to the Transportation Industry.

offering Owner-Operators the Independent Advantage

BUSINESS & PERSONAL SOLUTIONS

entrepreneurs supporting entrepreneurs

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

TNTruck meets Independent Contractors (ICs) where they are, all from the palm of their hand. TNTruck launched in 2019 as a way for ICs to get fast and easy quotes for business coverage like trucking insurance, manage drivers and units and access certificates and account information.

NEW INNOVATIONS:

TNTruck’s offerings have expanded, so ICs driving for a motor carrier can also access the benefits of the fully integrated platform. This technology enhancement is a gamechanger for motor carriers, as it allows them to truly support the IC experience - from initial contact through onboarding.

Innovative Updates:

• TrueNorth Insures

60,000+ Independent Contractors Nationwide

• Proud to partner with nearly 1/3 of trucking companies featured in Transport Topics Top 100.

• 4,159 recent TN Truck App downloads.

TrueNorth is a wonderful company because they treat you like family. Even when I had my accident, they were with me every step of the way and handled everything in a timely manner. A company like TrueNorth is what drivers need to keep America running.”

Robert Smith, Independent Advantage Client

Access TNTruck via native app from the Google Play Store and the App Store, as well on web or mobile browsers. Learn more at TNTruck.com.

COMMITMENT & CLARITY

a prestigious honor from the nation’s largest trucking association

In October 2022, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) awarded TrueNorth with the prestigious Mike Russell Trucking Image Award. This is the first year TrueNorth has been honored with the award.

The Mike Russell Trucking Image award is given to an individual, motor carrier, trucking organization and industry supplier who each demonstrate excellence in illustrating the industry’s essentiality, professionalism, and commitment to safety – on and off the highway.

TrueNorth Colleagues proudly serving the trucking industry:

• Dan Cook, National Accounting & Finance Council (NAFC) Member | American Trucking Associations

• Chris Gulker, LEAD Program Graduate | ATA

• Drew Mills, Research Advisory Committee Member | American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI)

• Bill Zenk, Board Member | Bluewire

• Jacob Pipkin, LEAD Council Member | Iowa Motor Truck Association (IMTA)

• Bert Mayo, Chairman | Intermodal Association of North America (IANA)

• Jason Smith, Independent Contractor Policy Committee Member | ATA & Board Member | Iowa Motor Truck Association (IMTA)

• Krystin Sitzmann, Safety Council Member | IMTA

These image awards celebrate companies, organizations and individuals who use innovation and creativity to generate positive awareness of trucking... the Mike Russell Image Award recipients are the pinnacle of this work in action.”

Elisabeth Barna Executive Vice President for Industry Affairs American Trucking Associations

CORPORATE PARTNER

positively impacting the transportation industry industry impact

elevating the client experience

AS BUSINESSES GROW, COMPLEXITIES INEVITABLY EVOLVE WITH THEM.

No matter the industry, an organization’s success often depends on how well it can adapt and perform to meet industry needs – all while being charged to “do more with less.” TrueNorth has developed a suite of resources and assembled a talented team of specialists to ensure your organization maintains a competitive advantage. Read about our impact in the next pages and visit tnmaximize.com for more.

Technology & Analytics

We have technologists, programmers and analysts on staff to support areas of Risk and Human Resources, because oftentimes if businesses have these resources, they’re focused on client-facing initiatives, operational optimization or financial stewardship.

Communication & Workforce Engagement

Your people are your number one asset and your largest investment. Our goal is to assist you in packaging the value of what you offer your workforce and their loved ones. Every organization has something unique to offer their workforce. We’re here to help you identify and communicate what’s unique to yours!

Risk & HR Strategy

Working with executive leadership on connecting the dots of Risk Management and HR strategies is a guiding principal within our teams. The common denominator often overlooked is People! Recruiting, on-boarding and active employee life-cycle management are critical aspects to an employers success. Focusing on the employer and the employee WINNING together should be at the core of an integrated Risk Management and Human Resources strategy.

Safety, Wellness & Loss Control

Getting your workforce home safely, while also ensuring optimal productivity should be a goal of every leader. A culture of physical, mental health and safety is the ultimate objective. We collaboratively analyze workers compensation claims and company healthcare data to create custom action plans designed to assist you in protecting and maximizing your workforce.

Claims & Employee Advocacy

When an unfortunate situation occurs that results in a claim, people seek clarity, action, and resolution. We have designed our Claims Advocacy Teams in three segments: Executive Support, Risk and HR Team Support, Individual Personal Support. Claims Advocacy is paramount to our value proposition and we continue to make healthy investments here.

Legal & Regulatory Compliance

Colleague support is ever important. At the same time, regulatory responsibilities continue to expand in numbers and in scope. We offer a suite of internal resources as well as vetted strategic partnerships to assist employers with appropriate, efficient, and compliant HR administration. All directed in an effort to ensure you are aware of and compliant with state and federal regulations.

uncertainty is the only certainty

our team of professionals harness the power of data, empowering clients to act with confidence.

From benefits system administration to business intelligence dashboards, our team of professionals leverage the power of data to drive results.

IMPACT STORY: Reliable Transportation Specialists, Inc. (RTSI)

For organizations that struggle to manage their safety scores, we have created SYiNERGY℠, a system-based approach designed to rectify misalignment between operations and risk.

THE SOLUTION: Data is most valuable when it informs action. TrueNorth’s proprietary business intelligence tool, iNERGY, collects, measures and evaluates operational and risk data through key performance indicators. This data then informs our Safety Well-being and loss control engagements through routine risk council meetings, on-site visits and safety communication strategies.

TRUENORTH SUMMIT ‘23

MAY 15-16, 2023

Your organization’s total cost of risk goes well beyond the placement of insurance.

We believe in being value creators and that Connection Generates Power. Our first-ever TrueNorth MAX Summit strives to achieve just that: to connect more than 300 attendees with the latest thought leaders and resources in risk management & workforce issues in 2023.

Represented Industries: Supply Chain, Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture, Construction, Education, Healthcare, Municipalities and more!

Reliable Transportation Specialists Inc. (RTSI) specializes in intermodal drayage. We have built our business on delivering domestic and international intermodal and fulfilling door-todoor truckload needs. We engaged with TrueNorth to refine our commitment to safe and efficient transport. I am proud to say that our BASIC scores dropped 17 points to the lowest they have been in my 12 years at Reliable. I credit TrueNorth’s data-driven approach and onsite support for renewing our focus and centering our attention on safety performance.”

Kevin Lhotak President Reliable Transport Specialists, Inc.

Represented Roles: Human Resources, C-Suite, Safety, Claims, Risk Managers and more!

maximize your workforce & improve your risk profile

RISK & HR STRATEGY

are you integrating your risk and people strategies?

Working with executive leadership to connect the dots between risk management and HR strategy is a guiding principle for TrueNorth –and people make all the difference. Recruiting, onboarding and active employee life-cycle management are all critical aspects to an employer’s success. Our solutions are designed to create synergy between your risk management and human resources strategies. These capabilities enable organizations of all sizes to tap into TrueNorth’s industry insight and extended resources to help you navigate risk and anticipate change.

EMERGING TREND :

Today, organizations across industries

are engaging third parties to support initiatives that were traditionally left to an internal resource or department. In a tight labor market, this evolved approach can help organizations increase expertise and limit overhead costs to prepare the business for long-term success.

THE SOLUTION:

TrueNorth’s risk and workforce solutions platform is designed to extend resources to an organization.

With seasoned experience in risk and HR strategy, our risk and workforce solutions management professionals integrate with your organization’s internal risk, safety and HR teams.

Together, we collaborate to identify key issues and relay progress, resulting in a teamwork model designed to drive successful outcomes.

TrueNorth has been our trusted partner in safety, risk, and insurance since 2015, acting as an extension of our organization. In cooperation with internal employees and TrueNorth, we host a monthly Safety Council that monitors trends, tracks performance metrics, and serves as a guidepost for how to best drive safety throughout our organization. Chad Graber serves as our “outside in-house” risk manager, helping us navigate complex claims, regulatory matters, and the nuanced interplay between insurance coverage and contractual policy terms and conditions. Given their expertise, industry knowledge, and accessibility, we implicitly trust Chad and the TrueNorth team to best represent the interests of our organization”

Allison Rogers, General Counsel 98 Ventures

every organization has a story to tell

COMMUNICATIONS & WORKFORCE ENGAGEMENT

We leverage workforce intelligence to create communication strategies that support and inform workplace safety, employee education and other organizational gaps to enhance communication and engage your workforce.

COMMUNICATIONS & WORKFORCE ENGAGEMENT IMPACT SOLUTION: Associated Benefits Corporation (ABC)

Beyond engaging with TrueNorth’s agribusiness practice, Associated Business Corporation (ABC) partnered with TrueNorth’s Workforce Solutions team to enhance communication within their member co-op system. Leveraging TrueNorth’s

creative resources, ABC created a series of communication portals and resources, uniquely branded to each of their affiliated locations. Each site is loaded with relevant content that serves to inform and educate co-op members on their respective benefits plans.

With over 60 years of service to the agricultural cooperative system, our customers have come to expect robust benefits programs that attract and retain top talent. TrueNorth has helped us deliver on that promise by implementing platforms designed to educate and engage our people. From TrueNorth’s agribusiness focus and risk management capabilities to their suite of workforce solutions, our business is primed to grow and evolve in innovative ways. We can’t wait to see what this partnership has in store”

Dan Edgington CEO, ABC

Scan to watch a video on our Communication & Workforce Engagement offerings.

...we’re here to help you tell yours.

who’s looking out for your workforce?

CLAIMS & EMPLOYEE ADVOCACY

TrueNorth is with you.

TrueNorth’s claim advocacy team has the expertise and resources to navigate the claims process. Our team of advocates collaborate with the client and provide proactive communication. As an extension of the client, the advocates are equipped to offer executive level support, risk & HR team support, and individual personal support.

IMPACT STORY: Communications Engineering Company (CEC)

When one of their employees encountered unforeseen medical expenses, Communications Engineering Company (CEC) looked to TrueNorth for clarity, resolution and action. Armed with insight from TrueNorth’s Clinical Management Specialist (an in-house Registered Nurse) our Workforce Solutions claims specialist went to

work, advocating on the employee’s behalf in pursuit of the best possible outcome.

THE SOLUTION:

Leveraging industry acumen and perseverance, TrueNorth’s claims team was able to successfully work with the medical provider to save CEC’s employee more than $40,000 in medical expenses.

At CEC, our colleagues are family and in order to successfully navigate this claim, we knew we needed a skilled partner with the right resources. TrueNorth’s team rolled up their sleeves, working diligently with the medical team and provider to find a holistic solutionrelaying detailed progress to our HR team every step of the way. Ultimately, they were able to advocate for our colleague in the way we wished we could - and we are so grateful for their efforts.”

Summer Fischer CEC

SAFETY, WELLBEING & LOSS CONTROL

At TrueNorth, we collaborate with clients, analyzing workers’ compensation claims and company healthcare data to create custom plans that protect and maximize your workforce.

IMPACT STORY: Storey Kenworthy

Iowa’s largest office supply and furnishings company, Storey Kenworthy, was struggling with frequency and severity of workers’ compensation claims, which negatively affected their premiums. In search of a solution, they engaged with TrueNorth’s Risk Solutions team to assist with building a meaningful, productive safety program.

THE SOLUTION: TrueNorth’s Risk Solutions team developed and implemented a unique safety plan to address Storey Kenworthy’s concerns. Our leaders continue to work closely with their team to keep safety top of mind.

Our Safety, Wellbeing and Loss Control team offers robust solutions like Return to Work programs, On-site visits, access to safety trainings, Clinical Solutions and more.

Over the course of our engagement, TrueNorth has become an extension of our team, deploying resources to serve our safety program in safety policies and procedures, employee training, injury management fleet and safety committees. In addition, we’ve seen a massive return on investment on our workers’ compensation costs by implementing these solutions. TrueNorth consistently pushes us to think outside the box when it comes to keeping safety top of mind with our employees.”

Abby Forst, HR Generalist

That’s why establishing a culture of physical, mental health, and safety is our ultimate objective.

the best way to the best way to prpreparepareforefor anan accident,accident, is is preventionprevention

If your actions create a legacy that inspires others

then you are an excellent leader.

to dream more, learn more, do more and become more,

colleague impact positive

positive

OUR COLLEAGUES

our #1 asset connection generates power

COLLEAGUE IMPACT

With five regional offices and nearly 550 colleagues working across the country in more than 20 states, our services, size and scope has evolved significantly since the firm’s inception 20+ years ago. TrueNorth was founded in 2001 and today we are over ten times the size we were when we were formed.

Is TrueNorth the catalyst to helping the individual achieve what they are capable of?

This question is one that guides the company and the investments we make in our collective future. We strive to attract, develop and coordinate high performing talent, and aspire to foster the individual’s sense of purpose, fueling their performance, and creating an environment where our colleagues feel welcomed and valued.

Scan to watch a short video about our Culture!

“

where we find clarity

OUR VALUES

It is a calling to be part of something special, unique and valuable. Together, we share the following values:

Exceptional | Far from ordinary, custom and unique. That is what it takes to create value at TrueNorth and it is how we aspire to serve our clients and communities, as well.

Collaborative | Connection Generates Power. TrueNorth colleagues work together to leverage our strengths and seek out opportunity. Our collective capabilities and resources have the power to produce remarkable outcomes and lasting results.

Resourceful | Create, innovate and deliver solutions. At TrueNorth, we are continually looking for opportunities to solve problems, create solutions and offer support.

I am empowered to make decisions about my work and daily activities. I have an amazing team of colleagues that are all very dedicated and driven to succeed.”

Colleagues & Counting:

565 Colleagues

97 New Colleagues Summer Interns

16 73 Owners

‘One TrueNorth’ is a shared commitment to align and aspire to something greater than anything we could do or accomplish alone.

TrueNorth Colleague, Energage Survey Response

IMPACT ON A REGIONAL & NATIONAL SCALE

NODS TO COLLEAGUE ENGAGEMENT & CULTURE

Top Workplaces in The US | Energage (2021, 2022, 2023)

TrueNorth was honored nationally and regionally as a Top Workplace by Energage, the leading resource in measuring workforce engagement. We also earned six culture excellence awards for innovation, employee appreciation, work-life flexibility, employee well-being, professional development and leadership. In addition, our CEO, Jason Smith, was ranked among the top 25% of the nation’s trusted business leaders.

#1 Coolest Places to Work, Large Group Category | Corridor Business

Journal (CBJ)

This year, CBJ awarded us the top spot in the large-group category! For the seventh year running, TrueNorth is proud to be listed among the region’s Coolest Places to Work.

Workforce Innovation Awards | CBJ In 2022, the CBJ honored us with the “Growing Your Own Leaders Award” in recognition of our commitment to perpetuating talent from within and investing in learning and development opportunities for our colleagues.

INDUSTRY AWARDS:

#44 Top 100 Largest Brokers in U.S. | Business Insurance

As a privately held firm, we are proud to be in the Top 100 Largest Brokers in the US.

#30 | Top 50

Commercial

Lines Agency | Insurance Journal It’s an honor to be nationally recognized among the country’s top commercial lines insurance brokers.

2022 | Best Practices ‘Big I” Agency | Reagan Consulting

TrueNorth was recognized with an elite group of privately held insurance agencies in the U.S. as part of a national study honoring financial and operational excellence.

2022 | Safeco Ignite Elite Agency | Safeco Insurance

Top 100 Independent Agency,

#32 |

Property/Casualty | Insurance Journal We are proud to be recognized as a growing, privately held leader in the property and casualty sector.

2022 | Nationwide All Star Agency | Nationwide

Proudly honored for our commitment and partnership.

We were honored by Safeco Insurance for outstanding performance and partnership.

2022 Best of Business Insurance | CBJ Citizens of the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City seven-county area recognized TrueNorth as the Best of Business Insurance in the region.

an unwavering commitment

With expertise from our Workforce Solutions leadership team, HR team and executive team, we have evolved our focus on Colleague Wellbeing to be a six-point holistic approach:

COLLEAGUE WELLBEING

As one of the country’s leading insurance brokers, TrueNorth is uniquely positioned to protect and maximize our workforce with many of the same innovative solutions and benefit enhancements we offer our clients.

In addition to providing our colleagues with paid parental leave, paid time to volunteer, floating holidays, and a flexible work environment, we have successfully adopted an uncapped paid leave model called Responsible Time Off, to assist with balancing personal and professional responsibilities.

Did you know?

73% of Americans rank their finances as the TOP stress in their life – and many reported financial anxiety and stress even before the onset of the pandemic.

Source: Washington Post, Mental Health America

Tim O’Neil has dedicated his life to the wellbeing industry, successfully developing and integrating best-in-class employee health and wellbeing programs with progressive and proactive benefit plan design. He has positively impacted program costs while optimizing employee motivation, engagement, and performance... Tim recently joined TrueNorth, which has allowed him to expand the number of organizations he can help create award-winning wellbeing initiatives. O’Neil says there are six key areas an organization must address to preserve and promote a healthy and vibrant workforce in today’s post-pandemic climate...”

Article Excerpt

Colleen Reilly, Contributor, Forbes.com

Scan to read the full article in Forbes.com.

TO OUR #1 ASSET

while clients fund and fuel our business, at TrueNorth, we believe that our colleagues are our most valued asset.

the courage to grow

Our Headquarters: Cedar Rapids, IA

Regional Locations: West Des Moines, IA Ames, IA

Denver, CO Chicago, IL

Colleague Presence

First MainStreet (36)

the best versions of themselves.

When our colleagues feel empowered, they can cultivate an abundance mindset, channel confidence, seek out what’s possible, and further the organization in ways that strengthen our collective value.

From business etiquette and emotional resiliency to problem

solving and negotiation skills, in 2022, nearly every TrueNorth colleague participated in a Learning & Development course or offering. The year ahead offers even more opportunities for our colleagues to evolve and grow. As a true reflection of that growth and development, TrueNorth leaders were proud to extend promotions to 47 colleagues.

DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS

In 2022, we were proud to welcome 16 new interns to the One TrueNorth family. TrueNorth offers one of the leading internship programs in the region, many of our colleagues began their TrueNorth careers this way.

This summer, we look forward to welcoming a new class of eager, skilled interns from across the country. Throughout the summer, interns will have a full-time colleague experience, class project, volunteer engagements and more. Friendships are made, meaningful experiences are had by interns and colleagues alikewe look forward to their refreshing energy and new perspectives joining us in a few short months!

Did you know?

71% of our interns have decided to make TrueNorth their career destination in the last three years!

we strive to foster an environment of learning and growth that empowers our colleagues to embody

individual stars

MAKING POSITIVE IMPACT

We are blessed with colleagues who are passionate about the industries they serve, their communities and professional development. In 2022, we were thrilled to congratulate the following One TrueNorth colleagues on their recognitions:

Andrew Mills | 2023-24 American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI)’s Research Advisory Committee

Anne Parmley | Corridor Leaders 250, Corridor Business Journal (CBJ)

Ben Verhille | Top 100 Retirement Plan Advisors Under 40, National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA)

Bill Teubel | Corridor Leaders 250, CBJ

Chris Gulker | American Trucking Associations (ATA) LEAD

Deb Kling | Waypoint Women of Achievement Honorees

Denise Kaestner | 2022 TrueBlue Award Winner

Duane Smith | #8 Most Influential Leaders, Corridor Leaders 250, CBJ

Jason Smith | #5 Most Influential Leaders, Corridor Leaders 250, CBJ

Jeanne Guynn | Waypoint Women of Achievement Honorees

Jessica Bauman | Accepted into WLC 2022 Elevate Class

Julie Estenson | Accepted into WLC 2022 Elevate Class

Justin Futrell | Young Alumni Achievement Award, Cornell College

Jordan Atwater | Accredited Professional in Risk and Insurance (APRI) Designee

Matt Evans | Corridor Leaders 250, CBJ

Megan Blair | Founders Fund Award, TrueNorth Legacy Foundation

Randy Rings | Corridor Leaders 250, CBJ

Teri Gibson | 2022 Women of Influence Honoree, CBJ

Justin Futrell

Teri Gibson

Julie Estenson

Ben Verhille

Jeanne Guynn

Megan Blair

Jordan Atwater

Deb Kling

Jessica Bauman

Duane Smith Jason Smith

Denise Kaestner

Andrew Mills

Bill Teubel

Matt Evans

Anne Parmley

Randy Rings

Chris Gulker

i love my job because...

MESSAGES FROM OUR COLLEAGUES

I am empowered to make decisions about my work and daily activities. I have an amazing team of colleagues that are all very dedicated and driven to succeed.”

“Our leadership cares about the well-being of employees.”

TrueNorth invests so much into their employees.”

“The people. Everyone goes out of their way to help each other. We are making a difference in the lives of our clients. We do not have to answer to outside investors, or worry about being sold. Collaboration, fun events, networking opportunities, and endless learning options.”

“Inclusivity of employees - regardless of job title or experience. The high communication and collaboration, fun events, networking opportunities, and endless learning options.”

Everyone celebrates each other’s wins.”

...the accessibility and visibility of leadership. It is rewarding to work for a company in which you have met an executive leader and leadership has made a point to know you.”

The people and culture allow me to feel successful at work. I am excited to come to work because of the people. There are also events such as Town Hall, Team Huddles and volunteer opportunities that make me feel more connected as a whole.”

“Everyone is willing to help each other.”

If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that

ANGELOU

cannot be erased.

community impact positive

community impact positive

&

at the heart of giving

ANNE PARMLEY Director of Community Impact

MATT EVANS, BOARD CHAIR TrueNorth Legacy Foundation

COMMUNITY IMPACT

In 2022, TrueNorth amplified its intention and focus on community impact – and while we have collectively accomplished a great deal over the course of the year, we are determined to continue our work to build a legacy and grow our impact in ways that serve our clients, colleagues, and our greater communities.

Our work aligns closely with TrueNorth’s purpose; we create value by investing, serving and extending our resources. That impact is felt within our organization and is carried outward into the communities where our colleagues live, work, and play. Our collective energy makes a difference.

For more than twenty years, TrueNorth has made every effort to ensure colleagues feel encouraged and supported to play an active role in their community through volunteerism, or in service to a non-profit committee or a board that aligned with their passions and sense of purpose. The world is in desperate need of exceptional, collaborative and resourceful leaders –we are aiming to do our part at TrueNorth.

As TrueNorth continues to grow in size and sophistication, our intention to create and invest in vibrant and supportive communities only grows with it. This year, TrueNorth sought out and successfully hired a Director of Community Impact, welcoming Anne Parmley to our team. Her role is designed to align our strategies, impacting how our firm engages in philanthropy, forges key external relationships, supports recruitment and retention efforts, participates in learning and development opportunities, and perpetuates business growth –all of which are tied to our philanthropic roots and intrinsic to our One TrueNorth identity.

As we look ahead to 2023, we intend to extend TrueNorth’s philanthropic impact even further by increasing our footprint in the communities we serve through growing our volunteer time-off and employee match programs. With the aid of TrueNorth’s Legacy Foundation, we look forward to offering even more opportunities for financial support and sponsorships, sharing our success along the way with our many industry associations and community partners.

the joy of giving back

WE ARE RESOURCEFUL

TrueNorth formally established our firm’s six philanthropic pillars for giving:

• Children and Education

• Emergency Preparedness and Response

• Entrepreneurialism and Innovation

• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

• Health and Wellness

• Vibrant Communities

These areas of focus reaffirm our commitment to enriching our communities, industries and relationships in ways that provide unique and lasting value. TrueNorth’s partnership with philanthropic organizations throughout the country, whether through industry awareness or local community connections, have been sources of passion, necessity and focus for our colleagues.

2022 Outreach by the Numbers:

$1,033,024

CAUSES IMPACTED:

DOLLARS DONATED: 200+

VOLUNTEER TIME OFF USED: 925+ hours

FIRST MAINSTREET LOCAL LOVE: $74.5k 30 communities

Scan this code to listen to CEO, Jason Smith, featured on the podcast Stream of Consciousness.

This summer, leaders took a ‘pie in the face’ in the name of raising money for veteran support services.

TrueNorth’s Chicago, IL colleagues volunteering together at Lawrence Hall.

TrueNorth’s colleagues volunteered for the United Way of East Central Iowa’s Day of Caring in Cedar Rapids, IA.

TrueNorth colleague’s who volunteer for Horizon’s Meals on Wheels were thanked with local treats!

TrueNorth’s Denver, CO colleagues enjoyed volunteering at a local kitchen through Volunteers for America.

TrueNorth colleagues enjoyed a “Day in the Life of a Driver” experience, drawing deeper connection with the lives of the truck drivers we serve.

Last summer, TrueNorth proudly participated in the Corridor Corporate Games taking a few medals and “W’s” back to our headquarters!

paws-itively impacting communities

TRUENORTH LEGACY FOUNDATION

The TrueNorth Legacy Foundation furthers our commitment to our communities, pays respect to the philanthropic legacy of our Founders and encourages us to perpetuate that legacy for years to come.

Building a private foundation offers a long-term investment strategy to assist in advancing our philanthropic goals, and provides the ability to fulfill grants for larger capital style campaigns within our communities. We look forward to announcing our first grant later in 2023.

Introducing the Founders Fund Award.

The foundation’s Founders Fund pays tribute to our firm’s original six

founders and their shared passion for philanthropy. The Founders Fund is an annual gift that TrueNorth’s Legacy Foundation appoints to a colleague that has put forth exceptional effort to make an impact on a nonprofit near and dear to their heart. This fund honors their commitment with a monetary gift, and enables us to continue forging deep and lasting connections within the communities where our colleagues live, work, and raise our families.

Our inaugural Founders’ Fund was proudly awarded to our colleague Megan Blair in recognition of her consistent commitment to volunteering with Dogs Forever of Iowa. The shelter works to foster and permanently place adoptable dogs with Iowa families.

Scan this code to learn about our first Founders Fund Award recipient and cause.

MEGAN BLAIR, 2022 AWARD WINNER

“Volunteering is really important to me because wherever you decide to volunteer your time, those animals or those people, they need you.”

small-town values, big-time viability

AS SEEN IN ROUGHNOTES

BY MAURA C. CICCARELLI

First MainStreet Insurance provides a platform for independent agencies to stay local and create a legacy.

Creating a legacy business is a challenging task in any era, but even more so today, when economic pressures from all sides are pushing smaller firms — independent agencies included— to merge, sell, or simply close up shop if no one is ready to take over the business.

First MainStreet Insurance offers a different path. Founded in 2017 as an affiliated business unit of TrueNorth Companies, L.C., of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the new platform helps independent agency owners preserve their legacy, keep their operations viable in their community, and grow

their business, with the help of shared resources and experiences of a larger enterprise, access to broader market opportunities, and the vision and training to create a way forward and maintain a legacy business.

A local independent insurance agency is a community asset, like the local bank, the local post office and the local courthouse.

Scan this QR code to read the full article.

“

If you split First MainStreet out on its own, it would rank inside of the top 80-85 agencies in America, as far as pure size.”

DAN DRISCOLL, DIRECTOR STRATEGIC EXPANSION

Looking ahead

EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN

for those who know me, ‘the best is yet to come,’is a statement I’ve been known to make throughout my career...

In many situations, these words have signaled clarity, instilled confidence, affirmed commitment, and awakened courage within me and for others throughout the past 40 years.

For our valued clients, it offers the assurance that we are not content sitting idle - we are listening, paying close attention to the present climate with an eye on the horizon. We are in a constate state of innovation: developing solutions, investing in technology and developing our talent to fuel a pledge and commitment that “the best is yet to come” for you, as well!

For our colleagues, TrueNorth’s most cherished asset, it underscores our unwavering commitment to lend guidance, show support and extend resources in ways that enable our colleagues to grow, navigate complexity and create value at

every turn. It speaks to the trust and confidence that comes with knowing that if you give, you shall receive.

For TrueNorth’s esteemed communities, ranging from the towns and cities we are blessed to call home to the industries we proudly serve, it’s acknowledgement of our shared mission to protect and maximize the assets, resources and opportunities among us. You can rest assured that as TrueNorth continues to grow, so will our levels of engagement and support.

As TrueNorth’s Executive Chairman, I’m proud of where we are today and yet there is so much more to be done. The strength of our leadership and dedication from ‘One TrueNorth’ colleagues offer all the evidence I need to know the best is truly yet to come.

Cheers to a bright future and a lasting impact.

Pridefully,

Duane J. Smith Executive Chairman

Duane Smith