Hanson & Ryan: Building Team Spirit, Opportunities for All Employees

Best Agency to Work For – East
TOTOWA, NEW JERSEY
Hanson & Ryan Inc.

Employees at Hanson & Ryan Inc. are proud of their workplace, where everyone feels like part of the team and every employee is recognized for their efforts to continue the agency’s success, according to their responses to Insurance Journal‘s survey of the Best Agencies to Work For.

The insurance professionals at the Totowa, New Jersey-based Hanson & Ryan, the Silver Winner of I.J.‘s 2015 Best Agency to Work For – East Region, say every employee is appreciated and valued, and is empowered in any way needed for their personal growth and development.

Founded in 1876, Hanson & Ryan has more than 30 staff members, providing commercial and personal insurance including life and health to northern New Jersey communities.

“In my career, I’ve never worked for a company where I’ve felt more respected, trusted and appreciated, than I do at Hanson & Ryan,” wrote one employee. “I enjoy coming to work every day because I know that my co-workers and my managers have my back. We’re a team and we never forget that. When times get a little hectic, we all pitch in to help each other out — whether it’s during a natural disaster like Superstorm Sandy or during a deep winter freeze in mid-January.”

“Everyone is treated equally and fairly, regardless of their position with the company. Hanson & Ryan is not just an insurance agency, but a family that I am thankful to be a part of,” said another. “We provide superior service to all our clients. Our clients are like our family as well.”

CEO Terry M. Ryan, a third-generation agency principal who’s been working as an independent agent for over 45 years, said being recognized as a Best Agency to Work For is an honor and an affirmation “that our associates truly believe in Hanson & Ryan.”

“We delegate responsibilities to our associates, support their decision-making and try to provide them with all the education and tools that they need to be successful. We encourage personal initiative, a comfortable work environment and team spirit,” Ryan said. “This is a great place to work because we invest in those principles, respect our people and create opportunities for all.”

Hanson & Ryan goes above and beyond to show appreciation for employees, with many different events throughout the year. “We have company appreciation days, whether they are at a baseball game, a tour bus to our insured restaurants, or a volleyball tournament with our carrier representatives,” wrote an employee.

Employees also say they are very proud of their contributions to the local communities.

The agency’s philanthropic efforts include a holiday toy and fund drive, charitable work and donations to area Boys & Girls Clubs, St. Joseph’s Wayne Hospital events, and many other non-profit organizations. They continually participate in events that have raised thousands of dollars for autism awareness, multiple sclerosis, domestic abuse shelters and needy families.

The agency also has “Jean Fridays” where employees can donate $10 every month to wear jeans on Fridays. The money collected throughout the year is given to local families in need.

“We have developed dedicated professionals who understand our business and know that our commitment to our clients and company-partners is the route to success,” Ryan said. “Our strength comes from our willingness to work hard for all the right reasons. Our 139-year reputation for professionalism, integrity and commitment to the area communities makes us truly distinctive in the insurance industry.”