The Crichton Group Names New Partner

NASHVILLE, TN--(Marketwired - Jan 21, 2015) - The Crichton Group, Middle Tennessee's largest independent insurance agency, announced today that it has appointed a new partner and a new director of risk management. In addition, it has also added an account executive and an account manager to its team, growing its expertise to meet continued client demand for its comprehensive insurance services.

• Joe Lacher, has been named vice president and partner;
• Tracy Light, has been promoted to director of risk management;
• Ansley Douglas, has joined as an account executive; and
• Teresa Walker, has joined as an account manager.

"It is a pleasure to welcome Joe Lacher as our newest partner at The Crichton Group," said Jimmy Ward, CEO of The Crichton Group. "Joe's tireless work and dedication to the benefits space has not only endeared him to his clients, but also ensured his place amongst the leadership of this firm. We pride ourselves on the opportunities available for all within this organization and Joe has exemplified that, growing within our firm by putting his clients first."

As partner, Joe Lacher will help lead the agency and support clients across the United States. Prior to this position, Lacher was a group benefits advisor. Joe's expertise is in consumer driven health plans as well as employer-specific risks associated with the Affordable Care Act. He was also honored with the 2013 and 2014 Salesman of the Year award for having the top revenue sales at the agency. In addition, Lacher serves as vice chairman on the board of Monroe Harding Children's Home and is a member of the Young Leaders Council. He is a 2008 graduate of the University of Tennessee having majored in Microbiology.

"We are thrilled to announce Tracy's new role and welcome Ansley and Teresa to our team," added Ward. "Each of these professionals are experienced leaders in the insurance market and carry a diverse set of skills. We look forward to our clients benefiting from their abilities and expertise."

As director of risk management, Tracy Light, will be responsible for the leadership and direction of the agency's risk management services, including claims and risk control. Light will work with her team to ensure high quality service, efficiencies and standardization of processes. Prior to this role, she was an account manager for the risk management sector.

As an account executive, Ansley Douglas will manage the Private Client Book of Business. Douglas has over 25 years sales management experience, most of which has been in insurance sales with companies such as Marsh & McLennan and Liberty Mutual. She is licensed in all lines of insurance for The State of Tennessee. Douglas earned a bachelor's degree in communications from the University of Tennessee.

As an account manager, Teresa Walker will help lead the agency's group benefits department. Previously, Walker was a team lead/contract benefits counselor for Benefit Communication, Inc. where she served as a contract case counselor aiding large employer groups as an extension of the client's human resources department. Walker earned a B.S. from Middle Tennessee State University.

The Crichton Group

The cornerstone of the agency began in 1979 with the founding of The Crichton Company. The firm rapidly grew and expanded through development and acquisition and by winning the loyalty of clients through personal and customized service. Today, The Crichton Group is Middle Tennessee's largest independent insurance agency. The firm partners with its clients to provide insurance advocacy, intelligence, guidance and understanding. To find out more visit thecrichtongroup.com.