The Chittendens: A Legacy of Excellence in Insurance Brokerage

TL;DR: Founded in 1972, The Chittenden Group has grown from a small start-up to one of the largest wholesale insurance brokers in the Southwest. Specializing in Disability, Life, Long-Term Care, Health, and Annuities, they empower over 2,000 agents across multiple states with expert guidance and high-quality products. The family-run business, now led by sons David and Dale, has a legacy of hard work, integrity, and excellence. With strategic partnerships and a commitment to innovation, The Chittenden Group continues to lead the way in the insurance industry.

The Chittenden Group has been a trusted name in the insurance brokerage industry for over five decades. Founded in 1972 by George A. Chittenden, his wife Fran, and their two sons, David and Dale, the Chittenden family made a bold move from their home state of Maine to Arizona to establish a business that would eventually become a cornerstone of the insurance industry in the Southwest.

What began as a modest start-up in January 1973 has flourished into a powerhouse of wholesale brokerage. Today, The Chittenden Group operates under the umbrella of GFSC, Inc., Financial Alternatives, Inc., and Chittenden Insurance Agency, LTD. With its growth and evolution, the company has become one of the largest and most respected wholesale brokers in the region, serving thousands of licensed agents across Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Colorado, and Utah.

Carrying Forward the Legacy

Though George and Fran Chittenden have passed, their legacy endures through their sons, David and Dale, who now oversee the operations. Their leadership continues to uphold the values of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to excellence that were instilled by their parents. Today, The Chittenden Group works with more than 2,000 licensed agents, offering unparalleled expertise in a range of insurance products, including Disability, Life, Long-Term Care, Health, and Annuities.

The company's mission is clear: to empower independent licensed agents by providing access to the most competitive and high-quality products in the market. By thoroughly researching and evaluating insurance offerings, The Chittenden Group ensures that agents have the tools and knowledge they need to fulfill their clients’ needs effectively.

Strategic Partnerships for Superior Service

A key factor in The Chittenden Group’s success is its collaboration with several national marketing groups of wholesale brokers. By joining forces with these organizations, the company stays at the forefront of industry trends, best practices, and emerging products. This network allows them to continuously enhance their offerings and remain a trusted partner for agents in an ever-changing marketplace.

One such partnership is with The Plus Group, a renowned organization of insurance marketing professionals. In 2006, The Chittenden Group became the Arizona partner for The Plus Group, expanding its reach and expertise in income protection products. This alliance has strengthened their ability to serve agents and clients in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, and Utah.

Income protection is a cornerstone of any robust financial plan, and The Chittenden Group firmly believes in its importance. Without a proper income protection strategy, even the most well-thought-out financial plan is vulnerable. Through their dedication to offering superior income protection products, The Chittenden Group ensures that their agents can help clients safeguard their financial futures.

Why Choose The Chittenden Group?

For agents seeking a reliable wholesale broker, The Chittenden Group stands out as a partner that delivers exceptional value. They offer a comprehensive selection of specialty products in Disability, Life, Long-Term Care, Health, and Annuities. If an agent is in search of a specific product, The Chittenden Group either has it or knows exactly where to find it, saving both time and effort.

Their service goes beyond just providing products. The Chittenden Group is committed to supporting agents with expert advice, market insights, and a seamless experience. This dedication to excellence has earned them a reputation as a trusted resource for agents across the Southwest.

A Philosophy of Perseverance and Excellence

The Chittenden Group’s approach to business is rooted in a philosophy of relentless effort and adaptability. This ethos is perfectly encapsulated in their company motto:

"Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows that it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning a lion wakes up. It knows that it must outrun the slowest gazelle or it will starve to death. It doesn’t matter whether you are a lion or a gazelle: When the sun comes up, you’d better be running!"

For The Chittenden Group, this mantra is more than just words; it is a call to action. Their mission is to equip agents with the tools, products, and knowledge they need to navigate the competitive insurance landscape with agility and confidence. By partnering with The Chittenden Group, agents can stay ahead of the curve and achieve lasting success.

Staying Ahead Through Industry Associations

The Chittenden Group’s involvement in prominent industry associations further underscores their commitment to excellence. They are proud members of The Plus Group, The Marketing Alliance (TMA), Sub Centers, and The National Association of Insurance Marketers (NAIM). These affiliations enable them to stay informed about the latest developments in the insurance sector and continually refine their offerings.

Through these partnerships, The Chittenden Group gains access to cutting-edge products and innovative strategies, which they share with their network of agents. This proactive approach ensures that their agents always have a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Simplifying the Agent’s Role

At its core, The Chittenden Group’s mission is to make life easier for insurance agents. By providing a comprehensive suite of products, expert guidance, and unwavering support, they empower agents to focus on what matters most: serving their clients. Whether an agent is looking for a specialized product or seeking advice on navigating complex cases, The Chittenden Group is there to help every step of the way.

Their customer-centric approach is what sets them apart. They understand the challenges agents face in today’s fast-paced insurance industry and are dedicated to providing solutions that streamline operations and drive results.

A Bright Future Ahead

As The Chittenden Group looks to the future, they remain steadfast in their commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence. With David at the helm, the company continues to build on its rich history while adapting to the evolving needs of the industry. Their focus on fostering strong relationships with agents and staying at the forefront of industry trends ensures that they will remain a trusted partner for years to come.

In a world where the insurance landscape is constantly changing, The Chittenden Group provides stability, expertise, and a clear path forward. For agents seeking a partner they can trust, The Chittenden Group offers unmatched value, support, and a legacy of success.

Contact The Chittenden Group

If you’re an insurance agent who hasn’t yet partnered with The Chittenden Group, now is the time to explore what they have to offer. With a proven track record of excellence, an extensive network of industry connections, and a commitment to empowering agents, The Chittenden Group is ready to help you achieve your goals.

Whether you need a specialty Disability, Life, Long-Term Care, Health, or Annuity product, or simply want to ensure you’re providing your clients with the best options available, The Chittenden Group is here to support you. Reach out to them today and discover how they can make your job easier while helping you thrive in the competitive world of insurance.

Conclusion

The Chittenden Group’s story is one of vision, perseverance, and dedication. From their humble beginnings in 1973 to their current status as a leader in the insurance brokerage industry, they have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence. By partnering with The Chittenden Group, agents gain access to superior products, unparalleled expertise, and a team that is invested in their success. With The Chittenden Group by your side, you can navigate the insurance world with confidence, agility, and peace of mind.

www.thechittendens.com