Insurance Business Review: Specials Magazine

McNaire Underwriters is a one-stop provider of trucking insurance, offering industry-leading coverage and bespoke solutions for complex, hard-to-place risks. Drawing on decades of industry insight, the firm develops well-defined coverage strategies. Its seamless support throughout the policy lifecycle helps agents deliver coverage that is both comprehensive and reliable. The boutique MGA offers a full portfolio, including auto liability, non-trucking liability, physical damage, motor truck cargo, general liability and excess liability. “We bring a rare combination of expertise and empathy, understanding the space and doing what’s right for people,” says Michal Walter, chief underwriting officer. McNaire’s leadership forms the foundation of its specialization. Walter brings decades of experience across retail, underwriting and trucking. CEO, Anna Antonov began her career in retail insurance, learning the business from the ground up and advancing through every stage to executive leadership, gaining many years of hands-on experience along the way. Her extensive work with trucking companies, insurance carriers, and underwriters has given her a deep understanding of the industry’s inner workings. Together with their seasoned team, they have navigated multiple insurance cycles and mastered the complexities of trucking risk, enabling them to identify challenges early and deliver practical, informed solutions. “We’ve lived every part of this business, and that’s what makes us true experts in this field,” says Antonov. ... Read More

In the coastal regions of South and North Carolina, insurance has become increasingly complex. Premiums have risen, carrier appetites have tightened, and non-renewals now arrive in rapid cycles that leave many agencies scrambling to keep up. Homeowners paying increased rates for coverage expect fast answers, clear guidance, and real support. Many agencies, stretched thin or relying on outsourced service, simply cannot meet that level of demand required in today’s environment. What in-house staffing and service structure supports Field Insurance Agency’s coastal insurance operations? Field Insurance has done a great job of managing this aspect of operations while continuing their growth initiatives. Since its founding in 1968, it has taken a different approach and built a strong internal team that prioritizes accessibility, efficiency, and expertise. The agency has structured its operations around the needs of today’s coastal consumer. Instead of relying on automated systems, it maintains a staff of more than 40 professionals with dedicated roles across sales, servicing, remarketing, accounting, and policy support. With everything handled in-house and supported by technology, clients receive quick responses, consistent communication, and a clear point of contact. “Customers today expect answers fast,” says Brian Payne, agency principal. “Email doesn’t close. Consumers want responsiveness, and they want to feel like their needs are being handled by a team that understands the marketplace. That is exactly why we make responsiveness and real expertise part of every interaction.” How are service demands handled by Field Insurance Agency during carrier guideline changes? This accessibility becomes even more important when carriers tighten guidelines or announce blocks of non-renewals. Many agencies stumble with sudden spikes in service requests, but Field Insurance Agency’s staffing model allows it to manage these surges without delays. It’s remarketing and service teams are equipped to respond within tight carrier timelines, especially as 30- or 90-day non-renewal notices create urgent consumer needs. ... Read More