Central\u2019s large construction team is growing, and at the heart of this expansion is Brian Shaffer, construction underwriting specialist. With nearly 25 years of experience in insurance\u2014most of it specializing in construction underwriting\u2014he brings a wealth of knowledge, strong industry relationships, and a deep commitment to delivering value to policyholders and agents.<\/p>\n
We sat down with Shaffer, who is certified as a Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS) and has earned the Associate in Management (AIM), to discuss his journey into insurance, his vision for Central\u2019s large construction unit in the Midwest, and what sets Central apart in this competitive market.<\/p>\n
From Hospitality to Insurance: A Career Built on Adaptability<\/h3>\n
Interestingly, Shaffer didn\u2019t start his career in insurance. A graduate of The Ohio State University, he initially pursued hospitality management and worked in hotel operations. However, the demanding hours and lack of work-life balance led him to explore other opportunities. Through a family connection, he leaped into the insurance industry\u2014a decision that changed his career trajectory for the better.<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery day in insurance is different,\u201d Shaffer says. \u201cThat\u2019s what really drew me in. I wasn\u2019t sure if it would be my final career move, but once I got into it, I knew I had found the right place.\u201d<\/p>\n
A Specialist in Construction Underwriting<\/h3>\n
Over the years, his career evolved from middle-market underwriting to construction specialization. He became a contractor risk transfer specialist, which led to opportunities to train underwriters and agents on construction-specific risks. Seven years ago, he decided to focus exclusively on construction underwriting, recognizing the industry\u2019s shift toward specialization.<\/p>\n Shaffer joined Central\u2019s large construction team just three months ago, and three key factors drove his decision:<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a01. A Clear Vision:<\/strong> Scott Zemberi\u2019s leadership<\/a> and vision for Central\u2019s construction division inspired him. Having worked with Zemberi for nearly 20 years, he knew he wanted to be part of this new chapter.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a02. A True Family Atmosphere:<\/strong> Many companies claim to have a family-oriented culture, but Shaffer truly felt it the moment he stepped through Central\u2019s doors, which is a rarity in the insurance industry.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a03. Unwavering Support:<\/strong> From upper leadership to front-line teams, the level of support and collaboration at Central stood out as exceptional.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cYou feel wanted here, and you feel like you can bring a lot of value,\u201d he states.<\/p>\n One theme that runs through Shaffer\u2019s entire career is his emphasis on relationships. Whether working with policyholders, independent agents, or his internal teams, he believes that strong relationships are the foundation of success.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can be the most knowledgeable construction underwriter, but if you\u2019re not relatable and accessible, those relationships won\u2019t thrive,\u201d Shaffer explains. \u201cSomething as simple as answering the phone or responding to an email promptly can make all the difference in building trust. Plus, I\u2019m a big believer in getting in front of as many policyholders and potential policyholders as often as possible. I think it matters to them when you take the time to meet them and learn. It\u2019s a relationship business.\u201d<\/p>\n In his role, Shaffer works closely with independent Central agents, evaluating new and existing accounts. He collaborates with Shawn Gentry<\/a> in Loss Control<\/a>, ensuring construction policyholders receive hands-on loss control support. This team service approach is something Shaffer believes sets Central apart from other carriers, as he wants insureds to look at Central as a company that has shown more interest in their operations than any other carrier they may have worked with.<\/p>\n He understands that risk managers with large construction companies are very proud of what they\u2019ve built. \u201cWe find ways to bring value as a partner without telling them how to run their business \u2013 our goal is to be an asset for each other,\u201d he highlights.\u00a0<\/p>\n Get insights like this right in your inbox. Subscribe to the Central Blog below.<\/mark><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Large construction insurance is highly competitive, especially in the Midwest\u2014a region Shaffer oversees, which includes Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. With so many carriers vying for business, Shaffer knows that differentiation is key.<\/p>\n \u201cOur goal is to be the most engaged and relationship-driven carrier in the space,\u201d Shaffer explains. \u201cWe want our policyholders to see us as a partner who truly understands their business\u2014not just another insurance provider.\u201d<\/p>\n Central\u2019s Large Construction unit is still in its early stages, but the vision for growth is clear. The team began in the Southeast and has now expanded into the Central region, with plans for continued national growth.<\/p>\n \u201cMy vision is to develop strong relationships with agents and help position Central as a go-to-market for large construction accounts,\u201d Shaffer says. \u201cWe have the people, products, and services to be a major player in this space, and I\u2019m excited to be part of that journey and watch it grow.\u201d<\/p>\n For him, success means strengthening the relationships he has in the industry to drive profitable growth in Central\u2019s construction vertical while sharing his construction knowledge with underwriters who don\u2019t have the same construction background. It also includes mentoring underwriters with a desire to focus on construction and help them pave a path into construction specialist roles in the future.<\/p>\n Shaffer\u2019s expertise, relationship-driven approach, and passion for construction underwriting make him a valuable asset to Central\u2019s policyholders and agents. As the Midwest\u2019s large construction team continues to grow, his leadership will play a critical role in shaping its success.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat makes us unique is our commitment to listening, building relationships, and providing exceptional service,\u201d he emphasizes. \u201cWe\u2019re not just another carrier\u2014we\u2019re a true partner to our agents and policyholders.\u201d<\/p>\n With professionals like Shaffer leading the way, Central\u2019s large construction team is well-positioned for a strong and successful future.<\/strong><\/p>\n The information above is of a general nature and your policy and coverages provided may differ from the examples provided. Please read your policy in its entirety to determine your actual coverage available.<\/em> <\/p>\n Products underwritten by Central Insurance and affiliated companies. <\/em>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.central-insurance.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/BlogCallout-CROLGConst-BrianS.png?ssl=1\")
<\/a><\/figure>\nWhy Central? A Vision for Growth in Construction Underwriting<\/h3>\n
A Focus on Relationships and Service<\/h3>\n
Navigating a Competitive Insurance Market<\/h3>\n
The Future of Large Construction at Central<\/h3>\n
A Commitment to Excellence<\/h3>\n
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