Hotaling Insurance Services, a fully independent risk management family office headquartered in Melville, NY, announced today that it has merged with Akumen Insurance Advisors, an independent insurance agency based in South Florida. With offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and now Doral, Hotaling’s new addition further solidifies its footprint in the Florida market.
With Akumen CEO and President Vince Castro’s over 25 years in the South Florida insurance arena, the merger complements Hotaling Insurance Services’ robust life, health, and property and casualty insurance portfolio, especially for Florida clients. Following the merger, Castro serves as President of Hotaling Insurance Services, and the Akumen brand will become Hotaling Insurance Services Doral beginning January 1, 2023.
“This deal has been many years in the making, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to finally work with Vince and the entire Akumen team,” said Bobby Hotaling, Founder of Hotaling Insurance Services. “Both firms’ proven commitment to putting clients first is a testament to the core values we share.”
Clients and stakeholders can expect a seamless transition, as a positive customer experience is the firms’ primary goal. Now, the firms and their partners gain access to enhanced service offerings across all product lines for their clients that span Florida.
“We are truly proud to join the Hotaling family,” said Castro. “It’s exciting to be reunited with my previous partners, Neil [Verdeja] and Gabby [Dieppa]. Under their incredible leadership, the Miami office has established itself as a major player in the industry. We could not think of a better firm to partner with.”
Hotaling Insurance Services’ Miami office opened in 2018, led by Managing Partners, Neil Verdeja and Gabby Dieppa. Castro, Verdeja and Dieppa previously worked together at BenTrust Insurance Group and spearheaded its growth until its successful sale in 2015.
About Hotaling Insurance Services
As a full-service risk management family office with over two decades of experience, Hotaling Insurance Services provides customized risk management solutions for clients, ranging from individuals and business owners to professional athletes and entertainers. With over 150 employees and seven office locations, Hotaling Insurance Services has built a reputation as a leader in the insurance industry. Through innovative insurance programs, Hotaling Insurance Services helps its clients protect and grow their assets with sophisticated estate, business, and tax mitigation strategies.
More information can be found at: hotalinginsurance.com.
About Akumen Insurance Advisors
Since 2018, Akumen Insurance Advisors has been an independent provider of employee benefits, commercial and private client property and casualty and life insurance services to high-net-worth business owners and families in South Florida. Akumen Insurance Advisors is led by CEO and President, Vince Castro, who brings over 25 years of insurance expertise to the firm.
More information can be found at: akumeninsurance.com.
