Vanguard Claims Administration Acquires Missouri’s Gibson

Vanguard Claims Administration has acquired the business of Gibson & Associates Professional Claims Management, Inc., a Springfield, Missouri-based third-party administrator with a 25-year history in the Lloyd’s and domestic markets. The transaction closed on Oct. 30, 2026.

Gibson has built a strong reputation handling multi-line liability claims, and its experienced team will now work within Vanguard’s national platform. Clients will continue to receive the same personal, responsive service both companies are known for, while gaining the added resources of a larger organization with deep domestic and London Market relationships.

Benjamin A. “BJ” Joplin, an attorney and Gibson’s principal, is joining Vanguard as senior vice president, TPA Division, where he will lead the third-party administration general liability team. All Gibson employees are joining Vanguard.

The combination strengthens Vanguard’s capabilities across general liability, professional liability, auto liability, REO, investor-owned property, outdoor activity liability, and construction defect claims. Financial terms were not disclosed.

McGuireWoods LLP served as legal counsel to Vanguard. Spencer Fane LLP served as legal counsel to Gibson.