Centennial Group Joins National Benefit Advisory Network

CLEVELAND, OH (3/29/10)- Southern California’s Centennial Group has been accepted for membership in Benefit Advisors Network (BAN), the premier national network of independent benefit advisory and consulting companies.

In order to be admitted to BAN members, or Smart Partners® must pass a stringent screening process “which focuses on industry expertise, ethics, business acumen, and vision,” says the organization’s Director, Deane Elek. BAN members are widely regarded as the “best of the best” among benefits brokers in their respective markets.

“BAN member firms are able to offer their clients the kind of capabilities, services, and strategic planning usually available only from a national firm. Our members deliver these world-class services, however, with the care and consideration of an interested local partner that understands what local employers want and need,” Elek explains.

The Centennial Group, which has offices in Southern California, specializes in the design, implementation, and management of employee benefit programs. The firm provides high quality service and expertise for companies that range from 20 employees to several thousand.

Known for combining superior client service with expertise in human resources, insurance, and technology, The Centennial Group has distinguished itself from other brokers by focusing on its unique financial modeling tools, network of resources, market analyses, and technologies to help clients administer and communicate their benefit programs.

“I see BAN as a tremendous opportunity to accelerate Centennial’s ability to become the premier employee benefits firm in Southern California,” says Centennial Founder Matthew Hanson.

Hanson, who is President-Elect of Health Underwriters, notes that much of his firm’s growth has been fueled by its Employer’s Advantage Direct service offering (www.employersadvantagedirect.com), which allows customers to outsource much of their benefit administration.

“The current economic and political climate is putting tremendous pressure on the resources of most companies,” explains Hanson, who has been active nationally in the healthcare reform debate. “Assisting our clients in a way that is strategic, relevant, and cost-effective will be both our biggest challenge and opportunity. I am very confident BAN will play a vitally important role in that process."

Unlike many other industry organizations, BAN only selects one firm per market or market segment. That unique structure and philosophy allow members to share best practices, unencumbered by concern about the presence of competitors. Recent studies show this unique collaboration results in efficiencies that allow BAN members to produce 65% higher revenues per employee than their peers.

For more information about The Centennial Group, call 714-740-1111 or visit the company’s website at www.gocentennial.com.

About Benefit Advisors Network

Benefit Advisors Network is a federated association of benefits brokers who leverage their combined size to bring employers the right solutions at competitive prices. For more information about Benefit Advisors Network, contact Director Deane Elek at (440) 528-0301 or visit the organization’s website at www.benefitadvisorsnetwork.com.