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We help clients lower their total cost of risk by challenging the status quo, solving complex business problems and delivering creative insurance solutions. Our technical expertise and proprietary programs, combined with our commitment to client service is the foundation of the value we bring to our clients every day. Article Mastering Your Resume: A Guide for College Graduates Read More On-Demand Webinar OSHA Reporting and Recordkeeping Compliance Updates Read More Article Managing a "Hard" Insurance Market Read More Case Study Leveraged best practices and good loss experience to return $80,000 year after year Read More Article HR’s Role in Mergers and Acquisitions Read More Article Coverage Basics: Cyber Insurance Read More Case Study Providing a Better Open Enrollment Solution Read More Case Study A 33% Decrease to Health Insurance Spend in 3 Years Read More Article Bond Producer vs. Surety Advisor: Beyond the Bond Read More

WEBINAR Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Thursday, December 18th | 2 PM Register Now! Each person who plans to attend the webinar should complete this registration form. Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. December 18, 2025 2:00 PM VIRTUAL Learning Objectives Review 2025 compliance developments - Identify the most significant regulatory changes that impacted health and welfare benefit plans throughout 2025. Assess organizational impact - Evaluate how current compliance developments affect your benefit strategies and administrative requirements. Prepare for 2026 requirements - Anticipate upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends to proactively plan your benefits compliance strategy for the new year. Brought to you by our Partners at Assurex Upcoming Events MICRO-STRATEGY SESSION November 4, 2025 Beyond the Script: Managing the True Drivers of Pharmacy Costs In this focused 15-minute session, we’ll unpack a strategic framework for managing pharmacy spend by targeting the root cost drivers—not just the symptoms. You’ll learn how to identify and pull the levers that actually move the needle, explore how cost-driven PBMs are disrupting conventional pharmacy management, and gain practical insights to help you take a more proactive, informed approach to controlling pharmacy costs. Learn More! Learn More! WEBINAR November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR November 10, 2025 Safety Reimagined: Setting Goals That Actually Drive Change Join SMSC Safety Consultant Scott Christenson for an engaging webinar that explores how to set safety goals that go beyond compliance and transform organizational culture by applying Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) principles. Participants will learn how to shift from traditional metrics to goals that foster continuous learning, organizational resilience, and worker empowerment. Register Now! Register Now! IN-PERSON December 2-5, 2025 NATMI Training & Certification According to NATMI, recipients who enrolled in a NATMI training and certification lowered their organization's accident rate by 86%, achieved a lower occupational injury rate by 83%, and controlled costs associated with accident litigation by 100%. The cost of participating in NATMI is minimal compared to the company’s day-to-day operational savings. The Certified Director of Safety (CDS)/Certified Safety Supervisor (CSS) course is designed to help safety personnel attain a greater professional knowledge base that should, in turn, provide greater confidence to improve operations, prevent and control injury and damage, as well as the ability to provide strong representation such as during a court case. Register Now! Register Now! IN-PERSON Sunday, November 16th IRMI Happy Hour Attending the IRMI Construction Risk Conference in Indianapolis? Don’t miss the chance to relax and connect with fellow industry professionals at an exclusive evening hosted by Cottingham & Butler. Learn More! Learn More! MICRO-STRATEGY SESSION December 2, 2025 The Care Traffic Controller: Directing Patients to High-Value, Low-Cost Healthcare In this 15-minute webinar, we’ll explore how care navigation can be a powerful tool for guiding patients toward high-value, lower-cost providers—without compromising quality. You’ll learn how to build a framework that proactively steers care decisions, leverages second opinions when they matter most, and breaks away from the conventional referral model to create a more strategic, cost-effective healthcare experience. Learn More! Learn More! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!

Discover IRIS, Cottingham & Butler's exclusive transportation management portal. Streamline fleet operations, access real-time data, and simplify insurance and compliance with one intuitive platform. IRIS – Your Fleet Management Resource IRIS is available exclusively to Cottingham & Butler transportation clients, designed to deliver a one-stop solution to easily access and manage the many moving parts of your business. The IRIS Transportation Portal has an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface that provides at-a-glance access to your driver and vehicle lists, Cottingham & Butler client service team, the ability to make real-time account changes, and much more! Avaliable 24/7 Easily Submit Updates Online Submit Payments Online Claims Reporting Access to Excess Cargo Coverage Manage your entire fleet with one powerful, user-friendly tool. IRIS Portal Advantages Manage your driver and equipment list by making changes easily online Export your current vehicle and driver lists Access the direct contact information of your dedicated C&B support team Access to your safety and compliance platform – Risk Management Center Easily access and manage your certificates of insurance Certs Online Connect to your organization’s claims management system – Ventiv Alerts on Cottingham & Butler news and events Easily submit secure, online payments with an instant receipt of payment Ready to Get Started? Current C&B clients can complete the form below to request a new account and a member of your client service team will send your unique log in details shortly. Transportation Insight & Impact Strategies for Fighting Driver Fatigue to Stay Alert and Alive Learn how to build an effective Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) to protect drivers and improve safety. Free resources and practical tools included. On-Demand Simple Devices That Can Save Your Fleet Thousands: Dashboard Cameras Discover how dashboard cameras protect trucking fleets from costly false claims, regulatory fines, and insurance penalties. Learn why drivers prefer this technology and how it delivers ROI in 6-12 months through accident defense, fraud prevention, and improved safety records. Articles 2025 Trucking Operational Costs and Industry Trends: Key Takeaways from ATRI’s Latest Report Discover critical trucking cost trends from ATRI's 2025 report. Learn how rising expenses and tight margins are reshaping carrier operations and strategy. Articles VIEW MORE Connect with a Transportation Expert!

Our member-owned group captive model fosters risk-sharing within a smaller, more stable community of like-minded construction organizations. Construction Captive Cottingham & Butler Captives & Programs deliver alternative risk solutions for best-in-class companies. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Joining our Construction Captive means collaborating with like-minded best-in-class companies. Together, you'll gain control over your insurance programs and unlock the potential for substantial cultural and financial improvements. Building a Better Future At Cottingham & Butler, our unwavering commitment revolves around building tightly controlled captives with a carefully curated selection of members. Our primary aim is to ensure that all members share common insurance goals and strategies, creating a solid foundation for success. Standard Market For best-in-class businesses, traditional insurance has historically been the go-to-choice for managing risk. However, it often comes with costly challenges. Fluctuating insurance costs regardless of claims experience Market volatility beyond your control Limited influence over claims management The stress of last-minute renewals Insurance carrier retains profits Captive Program A group captive brings together best-in-class companies who join to form their own insurance company. The captive is controlled by its owners, enabling companies to break free from the standard market. Request a FREE personalized captive comparison Construction Captive Testimonials “With the assistance and guidance of the Cottingham & Butler safety team, we have enhanced our overall company safety program by improving our ability to document, follow up, and trend for the future. We have seen a shift from being reactive to proactive.” Jacob Gilmore, Jr. | President & CEO, Gilmore Construction Corporation Construction in a Crush: Why Captives Are the Lifeline You Need READ THE FULL ARTICLE Current Quarter Market Report DOWNLOAD THE 2025 Q2 REPORT Ready to learn more about our Captive Solutions? VIEW OUR CAPTIVE BROCHURE Unlock the Strategic Benefits of Captive Insurance Predictable Costs Less Market Volatility Control Over Claims Lower Premiums Tailored Coverage Best-in-Class Peer Engagement Return of Underwriting Profits Company Specific Loss Control Is a Group Captive Right for You? Tired of paying too much for your insurance? Want more control over claims handling? Want to join growth-focused peers? Need more proactive safety support? Ready to invest in yourself for premium returns? CONTACT OUR CAPTIVE EXPERTS TODAY! Captive Insight & Impact Why Captive Insurance Could Be Your Company's Best-Kept Financial Secret Discover how captive insurance transforms business coverage from a pure expense into potential profit. Maintain comprehensive protection while earning dividend returns when claims are favorable. Learn why smart companies are choosing this alternative to traditional insurance that disappears forever. Articles The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior Watch "The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior" webinar recording. Discover how Cottingham & Butler's captive insurance programs deliver superior renewal outcomes with data analysis and client testimonials. On-Demand Debunking the Top Four Myths of Captive Insurance From misconceptions to realities, discover how member-owned group captives benefit best-in-class companies. Articles VIEW MORE Construction Captive Contact our Construction Captive Experts Today!

Grounded in risk-reward principles, our group captive model draws the attention of prominent food and agribusiness businesses. By offering guidance in re-shaping their insurance strategies, we empower best-in-class companies to take charge of their programs, cultivate safer work environments, and drive down costs. Food & Agribusiness Captive Cottingham & Butler Captives & Programs deliver alternative risk solutions for best-in-class companies. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Grounded in risk-reward principles, our group captive model draws the attention of prominent food and agribusiness businesses. By offering guidance in re-shaping their insurance strategies, we empower best-in-class companies to take charge of their programs, cultivate safer work environments, and drive down costs. FA Captive Testimonial Being a member of the captive has resulted in exactly what we were aiming to do, which is lower our overall cost of insurance. However, and more important to the long-term intrinsic value our business, being a member of the captive has manifested into creating a culture of maniacal focus on safety management, risk awareness and documentation, and continuous training. Evan Hayes | CFO, Fremont Farms Securing Your Future With Our Experience With substantial experience supporting alternative risk solutions, you can count on Cottingham & Butler’s rich experience, expertise, and innovative captive solutions. Acres Insurance Limited is a member owned group captive that was founded to serve the unique needs of food and agriculture companies, including growers, producers, processors, and distributors of food-related products. Our primary mission is to provide these businesses with cost-effective insurance coverage and to actively engage as a valued partner in their comprehensive risk management endeavors. Establishing and Managing Industry Leading Captives Since 1992 Is Captive Insurance a Viable Risk Tool for the Food & Agribusiness Industry? READ THE FULL ARTICLE Current Quarter Market Report DOWNLOAD THE 2025 Q2 REPORT Ready to learn more about our Captive Solutions? VIEW OUR CAPTIVE BROCHURE Unlock the Strategic Benefits of Captive Insurance Predictable Costs Less Market Volatility Control Over Claims Lower Premiums Tailored Coverage Best-in-Class Peer Engagement Return of Underwriting Profits Company Specific Loss Control Is a Group Captive Right for You? Tired of paying too much for your insurance? Want more control over claims handling? Want to join growth-focused peers? Need more proactive safety support? Ready to invest in yourself for premium returns? CONTACT OUR CAPTIVE EXPERTS TODAY! Captive Insight & Impact Why Captive Insurance Could Be Your Company's Best-Kept Financial Secret Discover how captive insurance transforms business coverage from a pure expense into potential profit. Maintain comprehensive protection while earning dividend returns when claims are favorable. Learn why smart companies are choosing this alternative to traditional insurance that disappears forever. Articles The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior Watch "The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior" webinar recording. Discover how Cottingham & Butler's captive insurance programs deliver superior renewal outcomes with data analysis and client testimonials. On-Demand Debunking the Top Four Myths of Captive Insurance From misconceptions to realities, discover how member-owned group captives benefit best-in-class companies. Articles VIEW MORE Food & Agribusiness Captive Contact our Food and Agribusiness Captive Experts Today!

The Cottingham & Butler Manufacturing Practice offers a dedicated focus on risk control, seamless claim services, and comprehensive coverage expertise, delivering a holistic approach to managing the inherent risks faced by today's manufacturers. Manufacturing Captive Cottingham & Butler Captives & Programs deliver alternative risk solutions for best-in-class companies. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM As a member of our Manufacturing Captive, members collaborate with similar, top-tier companies, gaining control over their insurance programs while fostering the potential for significant culture and financial improvements. Mfg Captive Testimonial “With the help of the captive, we have added the support and structure necessary to not only make safety a focus but to make safety a part of the Woolf Culture— at work and in all of our daily lives.” Karen Corley | Controller, Woolf Distributing Company Inc. Weathering the Storm: Captive Insurance as a Risk Management Solution for Manufacturers in a Turbulent Economy READ THE FULL ARTICLE Current Quarter Market Report DOWNLOAD THE 2025 Q2 REPORT Ready to learn more about our Captive Solutions? VIEW OUR CAPTIVE BROCHURE Unlock the Strategic Benefits of Captive Insurance Predictable Costs Less Market Volatility Control Over Claims Lower Premiums Tailored Coverage Best-in-Class Peer Engagement Return of Underwriting Profits Company Specific Loss Control Is a Group Captive Right for You? Tired of paying too much for your insurance? Want more control over claims handling? Want to join growth-focused peers? Need more proactive safety support? Ready to invest in yourself for premium returns? CONTACT OUR CAPTIVE EXPERTS TODAY! Captive Insight & Impact Why Captive Insurance Could Be Your Company's Best-Kept Financial Secret Discover how captive insurance transforms business coverage from a pure expense into potential profit. Maintain comprehensive protection while earning dividend returns when claims are favorable. Learn why smart companies are choosing this alternative to traditional insurance that disappears forever. Articles The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior Watch "The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior" webinar recording. Discover how Cottingham & Butler's captive insurance programs deliver superior renewal outcomes with data analysis and client testimonials. On-Demand Debunking the Top Four Myths of Captive Insurance From misconceptions to realities, discover how member-owned group captives benefit best-in-class companies. Articles VIEW MORE Manufacturing Captive Contact our Manufacturing Captive Experts Today!

Offering real-time HR support, a trove of training resources and seamless technology & vendor management, our team is here every step of the way to implement personalized solutions that help lighten your load. Creating HR Harmony We allow HR professionals to invest their energy where it matters most – in achieving business goals and taking care of their people. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Is your HR team bogged down by administrative tasks instead of focusing on strategic initiatives? Offering real-time HR support, a trove of training resources and seamless technology & vendor management, our team is here every step of the way to implement personalized solutions that help lighten your load. Our Approach Day-to-Day Support Streamline your HR operations with our Day-to-Day Support services. We handle the administrative details, allowing your team to focus on strategic initiatives. Technology & Vendor Management Maximize the potential of your HR technology with our specialized services in Technology & Vendor Management. From system integration to vendor relationship optimization, we ensure your tools are seamlessly aligned, empowering your organization with cutting-edge solutions for enhanced efficiency. Employee Communications & Support Promote a harmonious workplace through our Employee Communications & Support services. We excel in crafting effective communication strategies and providing personalized support to your employees, fostering engagement and satisfaction across your organization. Leverage our expertise to navigate technology complexities seamlessly. Support with insurance & vendor selection Management of carrier & vendor relationships Benefit administration system support New system implementation & file feeds Access to benefit document repository Access to technology credit program REQUEST A TECHNOLOGY DEMO NOW! Transparent and clear communication regarding employee benefits is crucial. Our creative and proactive approach to communication consistently boosts employee satisfaction, engagement, and overall retention, resulting in a more satisfied workforce and improved value for your organization. Partner with our in-house communications specialists to ensure your employees have a clear understanding of their benefits and empower them to make more informed decisions. COMPLETION RATE & SEE HOW ONE CLIENT ACHIEVED ENROLLMENT VIEW CASE STUDY Text enrollment offers your employees a quick and user-friendly way to complete their benefits enrollment anytime, anywhere right from their phone. SCHEDULE A DEMO TODAY! HR Efficiency Insights Minnesota PFML Is Coming in 2026: What HR Teams Need to Know Now Minnesota Paid Family Medical Leave (MN PFML) is a game-changer for employee benefits and workplace culture. With thoughtful planning and proactive communication, HR teams can turn this mandate into an opportunity to support employee well-being and strengthen organizational trust. Articles New Healthcare Strategy Delivers $540,000 Savings for Multi-Site Senior Care Provider When traditional healthcare benefits threatened both employee access and company financials, a strategic pivot to ICHRA revolutionized... Case Studies Manufacturing Company Saves $157,000 Through Smart Benefits Innovation Discover how this family-owned manufacturing company transformed their employee benefits strategy with innovative solutions from... Case Studies VIEW MORE HR Efficiency Connect with our HR Efficiency Experts Today!

We tailor your benefits and engagement programs to not only attract top talent but also ensure their lasting commitment. Our approach goes beyond conventional strategies, focusing on creating an enriched workplace experience that aligns with your organizational goals. Total Rewards and Engagement Empowering Employers in Talent Attraction and Retention CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Taking care of your employees means taking care of your business. A competitive compensation and benefits package can be a game-changer, elevating employee satisfaction and engagement while also providing a substantial advantage in attracting and retaining top talent. Maximize employee value and satisfaction with a strategic Total Rewards approach In today's dynamic workplace, offering a comprehensive Total Rewards package goes beyond traditional benefits. At Cottingham & Butler, we believe in a holistic approach that encompasses not only competitive pay and insurance coverage but also opportunities for growth, work-life balance, recognition, and employee wellness programs. Our Total Rewards approach ensures employees see the full value your organization provides, leading to increased job satisfaction and improved retention. Connect with our Total Rewards Experts Today > Total Rewards Strategy A one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work. We take the time to understand your unique company culture, employee demographics, and business goals. By aligning these with industry trends and benchmarks, we design a total rewards program that delivers real impact. REQUEST YOUR TOTAL REWARDS ASSESSMENT TODAY Designing an impactful benefits and compensation program hinges on aligning your goals with employee expectations We help to ensure you’re spending your time and resources efficiently, emphasizing benefits that attract and retain high-quality talent, all in support of your organization’s success. Informed Decision-Making Clients get access to our engagement study on employee-preferred non-medical benefits. Enhanced Health Literacy Leverage our digital and concierge tools to help employees realize quality and cost insights in their healthcare decision making. Employee-Centric Insights Conduct employee benefit preference surveys to gain in-depth knowledge of employees' reward priorities. Employee Rewards & Engagement BenefitWave transforms traditional feedback methods. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and drawing on decades of consulting expertise, we help employers better understand employees' benefit preferences to maximize their benefits program. VIEW EMPLOYEE INSIGHTS GAINED WITH BENEFITWAVE Compensation Strategy Compensation Strategy Download The Critical Role of Compensation in the Recruitment Process Guide by Matt Shefchik In today's competitive market, a well-designed compensation strategy is no longer optional, it's essential for attracting top talent and reducing costly turnover. Our in-house compensation consulting team specializes in building equitable and competitive compensation systems, crafting pay philosophies, and designing incentives for executives, staff, and sales teams. We understand the diverse needs of public-sector employers, privately-held companies, and not-for-profit organizations, and help businesses like yours: Attract & retain top talent Create fair and equitable compensation plans Boost employee engagement & morale Improve bottom-line performance Employee Rewards and Engagement Insights Hidden Savings in Your Benefits Strategy: Tech Credits Explained Struggling to get budget approval for benefits admin tech? Learn how insurance carrier tech credits can cover costs and transform your HR operations. Articles Our Engagement Team Difference: Efficiency, Education, and Value Emily Vorpahl shares how Cottingham & Butler’s Engagement Team delivers efficiency, education, and value by aligning technology, communication, and non-medical expertise to simplify benefits and maximize impact. Articles Building Deeper Workplace Connections: The FRIEND Framework In today's fast-paced business environment, creating meaningful workplace relationships is more crucial than ever for employee... On-Demand VIEW MORE Total Rewards Connect with our Total Rewards Team!

As a trusted insurance advisor, we help clients protect their most important assets through effective risk management and first-rate coverage. Insurance & Consulting As a trusted insurance advisor, we help our clients reimagine what’s possible. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Protecting your business and managing risk effectively requires first-rate coverage and a broker partner with a trusted reputation and exceptional industry expertise. Risk Management Services & Solutions We empower clients to effectively identify, assess, and proactively manage their risks. Our team of risk consultants provide expert guidance on a variety of insurance coverages, providing strategic advice for a range of exposures. Workers’ Compensation Property General Liability Auto Liability Cyber Liability Professional / E&O Umbrella / Excess Environmental Crime / Fidelity Surety Bonds Directors & Officers Inland Marine At Cottingham & Butler, we take a different approach to risk management. Using our comprehensive Risk Management Assessment, we dive deep into every client's program, uncovering their full risk profile. With tailored action plans, we help maximize protection, cut costs, and empower clients to navigate risk confidently, unlocking a future of informed decision-making and lasting success. LEARN MORE Optimizing Your Insurance Program Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all approach to insurance. At Cottingham & Butler, we believe in creating customized solutions that deliver exceptional value. Here's how we achieve it. More Markets, Better Value Our broad market access helps clients get the best coverage options at competitive rates, giving you more choices, flexibility, and cost-effective solutions. Team of Experts Our team is your team. Cottingham & Butler’s risk consultants work closely with you to ensure alignment between your business goals and insurance needs. Data-Driven Decision-Making Using our comprehensive Risk Management Assessment, we dive deep into every client's program, uncovering their full risk profile. With tailored action plans, we help maximize protection, cut costs, and empower clients to navigate risk confidently. Feeling limited by traditional insurance? At Cottingham & Butler, we understand that some risks require a more innovative approach. That's why we offer a full suite of captive and program solutions, empowering you to take greater control of your risk management strategy. Is a captive program right for you? FIND OUT NOW! Industry Partnership Cottingham & Butler is committed to every client’s success and proudly partners with the best in the industry to meet your business needs. 100+ Top Insurance Carrier Relationships Industry Expertise Our expertise spans across some of the most essential industries, giving us a unique and specialized perspective to help solve our client’s most critical business challenges. Transportation > Food & Agribusiness > Manufacturing > Construction > Insuranc & Consulting Connect with a Risk Advisor Today!

Our cost management strategies integrate analytics, alternative funding methods, and forward-thinking claim management to minimize expenses and maintain the value of your investments. The Advantage Program Your Small Business. Our Expertise. The Advantage You Deserve. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, driving innovation and creating jobs in communities across the nation. Yet when it comes to offering competitive employee benefits, small businesses face an uphill battle. The challenges are significant and growing, from rising healthcare costs to increasingly complex regulatory requirements. Cottingham & Butler’s Advantage Program specializes in helping small businesses get back the Advantage – providing the expertise and scale needed to help you compete for talent with a competitive benefit package, sustainable budget, and lean administrative team. Reimagining Your Benefits Strategy Improve employee satisfaction, save time & money. We craft tailored Employee Benefits Solutions that engage your workforce and optimize your bottom line. Time Savings Financial Savings Make Employees Happy Time Savings: Maximize Your Limited Resources Small business leaders wear multiple hats and often lack the luxury of building dedicated HR and finance teams. Our support system helps you navigate these challenges efficiently with: Dedicated client service team No phone trees In-depth self-service client portal Employee Benefits Hotline Expert technology advisors Financial Savings: Combat Rising Healthcare Costs Healthcare trends continue to drive double-digit cost increases, resulting in lower profits and forcing organizations to pass these burdens onto both customers and employees. Our approach helps you take control of these rising costs through: Preferred Small Business Healthcare Solutions Strategic Program Assessment Group Insurance Advantages Technology Credit Program See how we helped this Midwest-based real estate company avoid a $200,000 cost increase READ THE FULL CASE STUDY See how BETSY transformed this employers' open enrollment satisfaction and participation. READ THE FULL CASE STUDY Benefits That Make a Difference: Win the Talent Competition In today's fierce talent market, small businesses face unprecedented competition for qualified employees while trying to match larger organizations with extensive budgets and resources. We help level the playing field by providing: Competitive Intelligence Financial Wellness Resources Strategic Communications Support Micro-Strategy Session Recordings Simplified Benefit Solutions In just 30 minutes, you'll gain key insights into the benefits and healthcare trends directly impacting your business and discover solutions to the most challenging issues in the employee benefits space with real-world case studies of companies that have successfully implemented these strategies. WATCH THE SESSION Cost-Control Strategies Your Competition Doesn't Know Yet Check out this 30-minute strategy session to discover cost management techniques that don’t involve just moving your insurance carrier or raising deductibles. No fluff, just actionable strategies you can implement immediately. WATCH THE SESSION HR Time Saving Resources Between managing compliance, handling employee questions, and keeping up with regulations across different states, there never seems to be enough time in the day. This session covers accessible resources designed specifically to give businesses like yours precious time back. WATCH THE SESSION 3 Ways to Overcome Open Enrollment Challenges This recording provides HR professionals with strategies to streamline open enrollment through effective employee education, technology solutions, and communication tactics that help employees better understand and appreciate their benefits. WATCH THE SESSION Employee Benefits Insights Deadline for Submitting Gag Clause Attestation Is Dec. 31, 2025 Learn about federal gag clause prohibition requirements and annual attestation deadlines for group health plans. Essential compliance guidance for employers with fully insured and self-insured plans. Articles IRS Releases Health FSA Limits for 2026 The IRS increased the 2026 health FSA contribution limit to $3,400 (up from $3,300) and the carryover limit to $680. Learn what employers need to know about Rev. Proc. 2025-32 compliance and employee contributions. Articles $323K Premium Reduction Achieved Chicago manufacturer slashes 52% renewal increase to just 4.7%, avoiding $323K in premiums and removing $1.5M+ in claims through strategic benefit solutions. Case Studies VIEW MORE Connect with our Advantage Program Experts Today!

In 1957, current Chairperson John E. Butler joined the family business as one of three employees. Under his leadership and vision, Cottingham & Butler has grown to over 1,300 employees nationwide. John E. Butler Chairperson In 1957, current Chairperson John E. Butler joined the family business as one of three employees. Under his leadership and vision, Cottingham & Butler has grown to over 1,300 employees nationwide. The firm’s growth has been propelled by John’s spirit of innovation and commitment to exceptional service, developing several alternative market facilities within the claim administration, health, managed care, and safety sectors. John’s current focus is the development and implementation of initiatives for the company’s continued vigorous growth. During his tenure at Cottingham & Butler, John served as director and acted as an executive committee member for both Assurex Global and the Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers. He is a former chair of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry. John resides in Dubuque, Iowa, where Cottingham & Butler is headquartered. He is an active member of his community, sitting on the Executive Committee of the Board for the University of Dubuque, and formerly the Grand Opera House Foundation. John was honored with the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award. Regionally, John serves as a member of Chicago’s Executive Committee of the Noble Network of Charter Schools, as well as the Lyric Opera. John graduated from Babson College in Massachusetts with a BS in Business Administration, receiving his MBA with a concentration in Insurance from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Since 1887, our promise has been simple: Better Every Day. We're dedicated to providing our clients with superior advice, service, and innovative ideas, surpassing our competitors consistently. This approach has produced superior results and a growth track record that has propelled us to the 3rd largest privately and independently held brokerage in the country. Your Trusted Insurance Partner Since 1887, our promise has been simple: Better Every Day. WATCH OUR STORY It's not just a slogan, it's a relentless drive to push boundaries, ignite innovation, and deliver superior results for our clients. We're not content with the status quo. We challenge conventional thinking, embrace fresh ideas, and constantly refine how we serve you. This unwavering commitment has fueled exceptional growth, propelling us to become the 3rd largest privately held brokerage in the country. 3rd largest privately and independently held insurance broker 135+ years of service 1887 established At Cottingham & Butler, our mission is simple, yet sincere... To partner with our clients, to protect their most valuable assets, and to build an exceptional company of passionate insurance professionals. Delivering Excellence, Building Trust Our core values form the bedrock of our culture, defining how we do business. Integrity It's the cornerstone of every action we take. Transparency We always tell the truth and keep our commitments. Respect We imbue every interaction with dignity and respect. Client-Centric Focus We understand and serve our clients' long-term best interests as if they were our own. Our Visionary Leaders Andrew Butler, Executive Chairperson Andrew leads Cottingham & Butler with a strategic vision, driving prosperity, growth, and cultivating employee development. His commitment to delivering exceptional services to our clients and establishing respected industry partnerships underscores our constant pursuit of excellence. Read Full Bio > David Becker, CEO As CEO, David uses his extensive experience in business strategy and growth to lead the overall operations of Cottingham & Butler and its subsidiaries. His leadership ensures that our clients consistently receive superior service and innovative solutions, embodying our dedication to excellence. Read Full Bio > John E. Butler, Chairperson In his role as Chairperson, John focuses on propelling our company's robust growth and advancing the development of our industry. His visionary initiatives shape our strategic direction, emphasizing innovation and reinforcing our position as industry leaders. Read Full Bio > Reaching You, Wherever You Are Strategically positioned across the U.S. with a team of over 1,300 professionals, we take pride in guaranteeing accessibility to every client. Our ongoing efforts to extend our reach emphasizes our commitment to providing best-in-class service. CB History Video Our History From a humble single storefront nestled on the banks of the Mississippi in 1887 to a national powerhouse, Cottingham & Butler's story is one of family, resilience, and unwavering dedication to client service. Through generations, we've grown alongside our clients, adapting to challenges, and pioneering new solutions. MAKE HISTORY WITH US. About Page Contact Us Reach out today, and let's work together to secure your future