The Unland Companies president Pat Taphorn (pictured) has been installed as the new president of Big I Illinois at the association’s annual convention in Peoria.
Taphorn’s one-year term will focus on guiding the Big I Illinois’ strategic direction and serving as its representative at both state and national gatherings.
The seasoned leader, who began his career at Unland Insurance & Benefits shortly after graduating in 1989, initially held roles in accounting and operations before transitioning to sales in 1994. In 2005, he became a partner, and by January 2016 he assumed the role of president.
Taphorn oversees six agency offices across Illinois in Pekin, East Peoria, Metamora, Macomb, and Farmington. Under his leadership, Unland provides a wide range of insurance solutions, including commercial and personal property & casualty, life & health, employee benefits, and financial services.
At the same time, Taphorn maintains direct relationships with his clients alongside his executive responsibilities.
Over the years, Taphorn has held multiple positions within Big I Illinois, including roles as regional director, at-large director, chair of the government relations committee, vice president, and president-elect. Beyond his work in insurance, he has been a committed assistant basketball coach at Pekin High School.
Phil Lackman, chief executive of Big I Illinois, expressed strong support for Taphorn’s plans for the association, stating: “On behalf of the Big I Illinois board of directors and staff, we look forward to Pat’s leadership for the upcoming year.
“He has set meaningful goals for both volunteer leadership and staff, including encouraging member involvement, spreading enthusiasm for careers in insurance, educating agencies on the importance of political advocacy, and exploring new programs, services, and opportunities to grow the association.”
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