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Ben Conner
CEO l Healthcare Strategist l 2020 BenefitsPro Broker of the Year Finalist l #GirlDad
Professional Background
Ben Conner’s career journey is nothing short of impressive, marked by significant achievements and a steadfast commitment to excellence in the insurance and benefits consulting industry. After earning a degree in finance from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2006, Ben Conner started his professional journey as an insurance advisor at Conner Insurance. His exceptional skills in strategic planning, finance, and communication soon set him apart in an industry that values customer-centric service. Within a few short years, his vision and execution earned him recognition as one of the top advisors at Conner Insurance and within the Indiana insurance sector as a whole.
By the time he reached his late twenties, Ben had already made a name for himself, working with some of the largest and most reputable privately held and publicly traded companies across Indiana. His exceptional efforts culminated in his promotion to CEO in 2013—a role in which he has continued to excel, driving the firm to unprecedented heights.
In 2015, Ben, alongside his business partners, successfully acquired Conner Insurance from the previous owners. Under Ben’s leadership, the firm has experienced remarkable growth, having tripled in size within just a few years. Notably, Conner Insurance has retained an impressive 90% of its clients and has increased its number of insurance advisors on staff threefold. The firm’s average customer size has grown by more than 10 times, positioning Conner Insurance as one of Indiana's highest-growing and most trustworthy consulting agencies.
Utilizing his extensive expertise in benefits management, Ben has ensured that his clients have experienced best-in-class national results while managing their health plans. A remarkable 80% of Ben’s clients reported flat or reduced healthcare expenses over the last 5 to 10 years—a feat that is truly exceptional in the benefits healthcare industry.
Education and Achievements
Ben Conner’s academic background provided a solid foundation for his successful career. He graduated with a degree in finance from Indiana Wesleyan University, which equipped him with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the finance and insurance sectors adeptly. Before pursuing his higher education, Ben attended Heritage Christian School, where he developed critical life skills and a passion for learning that would serve him well throughout his career.
Throughout his professional journey, Ben has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the insurance industry and his commitment to creating a healthy workplace culture. Under his leadership, Conner Insurance was recognized as one of the 100 Healthiest Workplaces in America for four consecutive years, from 2014 to 2017. Additionally, the firm was honored as the Healthiest Employer in Indiana in 2016 and received several finalist mentions in previous years, including 2012, 2014, and 2015.
Ben has been recognized on a national level as well, earning nominations from esteemed publications. In 2020, he was a finalist for the Broker of the Year award by BenefitsPro magazine, reflecting his impact and influence in the field of benefits consulting. The previous year, Ben was designated as a Rising Star in Advising by Employee Benefit Adviser, illustrating his remarkable potential and innovative approach to the industry.
In terms of community involvement, Ben also served as a Board Member and President for Jay’s Moving, a local household goods moving company, from 2008 to 2019. Under his leadership, Jay’s Moving was recognized in 2018 as a FAST25 Company by the Indianapolis Business Journal, which honors the 25 fastest-growing companies in the Indianapolis area.
Achievements
Ben Conner’s professional achievements demonstrate both his personal commitment to excellence and his dedication to making a meaningful impact in the insurance and benefits consulting field. He has successfully transformed Conner Insurance into a thriving business, showcasing his ability to maintain strong client relationships while fostering a productive workplace environment.
A few highlights of his notable achievements include:
- Promotion to CEO of Conner Insurance in 2013 – Ben’s leadership and strategic vision were recognized when he was appointed CEO at a relatively young age.
- Successful acquisition of Conner Insurance in 2015 – Ben played an instrumental role in acquiring the firm, with a focus on maintaining growth and client satisfaction during transition periods.
- Retention of 90% of clients – His commitment to superior client service and strategic oversight has fostered strong, long-lasting relationships with many clients.
- Tripled growth in firm size – Under his leadership, the firm has achieved significant growth, expanding both its service offerings and workforce.
- Recognition for workplace culture – The firm has received multiple accolades for being a healthy workplace, emphasizing the importance of culture in employee satisfaction and productivity.
In his personal life, Ben is based in Fishers, Indiana, where he lives with his wife Alyssa and their three children. Outside of work, Ben is a devoted family man who enjoys reading, participating in and watching sports, traveling, and spending quality time with his loved ones. His well-rounded approach to life emphasizes the importance of balancing professional success with family and personal interests.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
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