Smart Choice reports breakthrough growth, key hires

Smart Choice Agents Program has reported breakthrough growth in the first half of 2021 and the hiring of two key executives.

In the first half of 2021, 631 independent agents have joined the Smart Choice Agents network. The new partnership agencies represent virtually every type of business, from start-ups to established agencies with multiple offices, Smart Choice said.

“We set very aggressive goals for expansion as part of our five-year plan,” said Andrew Caldwell, president of Smart Choice Agents. “This unprecedented response from agents helps us maintain our growth trajectory, and it also validates the unique business value that we offer independent agents.”

Smart Choice has also appointed Mike Golonka as vice president of strategic partners and Thomas Andrews as vice president of finance.

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In his new role, Golonka will work with Smart Choice on key company relationships and with partner agencies on integration of business. He previously served as national accounts sales director at MetLife Auto, part of Farmers Insurance Group.

Andrews, a certified public accountant, will lead the finance team. He previously served as a senior auditor at Dixon Hughes Goodman, one of the nation’s leading professional services firms.