We are pleased to announce that Mike Lappin is joining Valley Insurance Associates, a Vizance Company, as Partner and President, effective July 11, 2017.

Since 1999, Lappin has been employed with Motorists Insurance Group, most recently serving as President of Wilson Mutual since 2013. Under Lappin’s direction, Wilson Mutual experienced increased revenue, while also improving a number of internal departments, furthering Wilson’s position as a leader in the insurance industry. At Valley Insurance Associates, Lappin plans to add additional associates to the team, and will also be exploring further opportunities for mergers and acquisitions.

“I am delighted to partner with the team at Valley Insurance Associates and Vizance,” said Lappin. “This is a dynamic organization that has successfully evolved to meet the needs of an ever-changing business environment, and the values and vision of this company are in complete alignment with mine. This role provides the ideal leadership opportunity to merge my passion for insurance with my track record of robust business growth.”

Jeff Cardenas, President of Vizance, echoed Lappin’s thoughts: “We are thrilled to welcome Mike to the team. His outstanding character and values, combined with his proven success in helping Wilson Mutual grow over time, indicate that he will provide the leadership that is needed to sustain our rapid organic growth rate. We will also continue to look at opportunities to acquire agencies that fit with our culture and strengthen our service offerings.”

Valley Insurance Associates offers business insurance, home and auto insurance, employee benefits and individual health insurance, including Medicare. Services such as safety, risk management, compliance services and wellness programs are provided to its business clients and will continue to be enhanced. Valley Insurance Associates has office locations in Appleton, Oshkosh, Green Bay and Kaukauna.

Vizance, founded in 1978 and based in Hartland, Wisconsin, is a privately-held independent agency offering a broad portfolio of insurance, risk management, employee benefits and financial service solutions for businesses and individuals. The agency was recently named as one of the area’s “Fastest Growing Firms” and “Best Places to Work” by the Milwaukee Business Journal. The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce appointed Vizance to its “Future 50” list and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel listed Vizance as a “Top Workplace.” The agency also received the Ethics award, which reflected the associates’ belief that the company operates by strong values and ethics.

Valley Insurance Associates joined Vizance on March 1, 2017. Vizance plans to continue growing through mergers and acquisitions, and is seeking other partner agencies.