The Inspiring Journey of Brent Hodgkiss in the Insurance Industry

Sponsored by Holmes Murphy

Introduction

In the world of business, one extraordinary story is creating waves in the insurance sector: the success journey of Brent Hodgkiss. With a unique blend of hard work, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit, Hodgkiss demonstrates that you don’t need to possess extensive industry experience or local ties to achieve remarkable success in the insurance field.

Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Brent’s story begins in Texas, where he was raised as the middle child in a family of seven. His upbringing was not without challenges; his parents, with limited financial resources, instilled in him the values of hard work, perseverance, and support. Hodgkiss recalls, “There were times electricity was off at home, but my parents always made the best of it.”

This resilience fueled his entrepreneurial drive from a young age. By age 8, Brent sold pears from the family tree, and by 12, he was offering lawn mowing services to locals. This early introduction to entrepreneurship laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors.

Breaking into Sales

Brent’s formal introduction to sales came during his college years at Lindenwood University, where he played quarterback. Upon graduation, he took a leap into door-to-door sales, peddling home security systems. “Knocking on doors taught me invaluable lessons about communication,” he recalls. His success in this role led him to launch a sales consulting business focused on enhancing direct-to-home sales strategies, which flourished to include 170 employees and 17 offices nationwide.

The Move to Sioux Falls

In 2014, Brent and his wife Lori decided to settle in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, drawn by its community vibe and business opportunities. “Sioux Falls is an amazing place to raise a family, with a vibrant culture and a growing economy,” says Hodgkiss.

A New Chapter at Holmes Murphy

Initially, Hodgkiss continued to travel for his consulting work until he connected with Doug Muth, who introduced him to Holmes Murphy. Upon learning about the company’s values and long-term potential for growth and ownership, he was intrigued. “The entrepreneurial spirit and the opportunity for ownership at Holmes Murphy attracted me,” he explains.

Transitioning into Insurance

Despite having no insurance background, Hodgkiss realized that his experiences in business could translate effectively into this new field. He spent 18 months evaluating opportunities before joining Holmes Murphy in 2018. His determination and willingness to learn quickly became evident as he adapted to the intricacies of the insurance industry.

Achievements and Recognition

Through sheer dedication, Hodgkiss broke records at Holmes Murphy by building a $1 million book of business in under three years. This achievement was underscored by securing clients with premiums exceeding $10 million. Kris Kemmis, a client executive at Holmes Murphy, notes, “Brent’s commitment to learning and improving outcomes for clients has led to success beyond expectations.”

Becoming a Shareholder

By his fourth year, Hodgkiss was nominated to become a shareholder. At Holmes Murphy, prospective shareholders must complete a yearlong program to understand the company’s culture and responsibilities. Hodgkiss states, “It’s about buying into the culture and becoming a leader for the team.”

A Unique Approach to Business

Brent’s background allows him to approach insurance from a business consultant’s viewpoint, focusing on profitability and risk management. “I discuss how risk management and insurance solve business problems,” he explains, fostering meaningful partnerships with clients.

Navigating Challenges for Clients

Brent has a particular knack for helping businesses tackle complex challenges, especially those facing high insurance costs. His innovative solutions can lead to significant savings, which in turn can impact hiring decisions and potential acquisitions.

Conclusion

Brent Hodgkiss embodies the principle that success in business transcends experience and regional ties. His commitment to hard work, relationships, and continuous learning has made him a standout figure at Holmes Murphy. For individuals looking to forge a similar path in the insurance industry, connect with Holmes Murphy to explore exciting career opportunities.

Connect with Holmes Murphy

To learn more about career opportunities, visit Holmes Murphy.

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