MEM continues to deepen its commitment to independent agents by adding four new members to its Agents’ Advisory Council. This diverse group of 20 insurance experts will advise MEM on marketing strategies and advocate for agents’ needs. Members serve four-year terms, ensuring consistent engagement and fresh perspectives.
“The Council plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between agents and MEM,” said Rene Eslinger, MEM’s Vice President and Chief Sales Officer. “Their feedback directly shapes our policies and initiatives, ultimately leading to a stronger, more successful partnership for everyone involved.”
New members include:
April Empfield
April Empfield is a Partner and Producer at Ryder Rosacker McCue & Huston Insurance Services in Grand Island, NE. She has more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, beginning her career as a licensed customer service representative.
In 2016, She joined Ryder Rosacker McCue & Huston. Empfield specializes in the trucking industry; however, she enjoys writing all other types of business as well. She holds CISR (Certified Insurance Service Representative) and CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor) designations as well as a Specialist in Transportation and Risk designation. She enjoys being involved in her community and is currently vice chair of the board of directors for the YWCA Grand Island.
Kelsey Flynn
Kelsey Flynn is a Commercial & Personal Lines Agent with K. Flynn Insurance in Troy, Missouri. He has more than 12 years of experience in the insurance industry after growing up watching his mom and dad start the agency in 1982. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture communication from the University of Missouri and is a member of the Lincoln County Mizzou Alumni Association, Lincoln County Fair Board and served on the Secura Missouri Agent Advisory Council.
Luke Johnson
Luke Johnson is the Vice President of Nebraska Operations for Plummer Insurance Inc. He has more than 15 years of insurance experience and manages the Gering location, focusing on business, farm-ranch, and personal insurance solutions. He graduated from Hastings College with a B.A. in business marketing and played as a Defensive Back on the Hastings Football team. He started his insurance career with a State Farm agency in Lincoln, NE before moving back to Sidney in 2011 to take over the American Family Insurance agency. During his tenure, he won multiple awards, including the All-American honor twice and the Life Diamond Award. He joined Plummer Insurance in 2014.
Mike Ottsen
Mike Ottsen is the Senior VP of Business Insurance at Marsh & McLennan Agency | St. Louis, with 30+ years of experience in the insurance industry. He manages client relationships and develops new business opportunities. Mike has an MBA in finance from St. Louis University and was an underwriter at Chubb Group of Insurance Companies prior to joining Marsh & McLennan. He is active in the St. Louis business community and has served on various boards including Fellowship of Christian Athletes and InsideOUT Prison Ministry.
About MEM
MEM provides work comp insurance to companies of all sizes. Across the region, employers turn to MEM for our personalized approach and comprehensive safety programs. We protect employees, save lives, and help organizations move forward with confidence. Learn more at www.mem-ins.com.