Alliant Insurance Services Expands Employee Benefits Team
Recent Hires
Alliant Insurance Services has strengthened its employee benefits group with two senior appointments. Jeff Black has joined as senior vice president in Chicago, having spent nearly three decades at Mercer, where he was the global leader of M&A advisory services. Barrett Esarey, appointed as vice president in Los Angeles, brings experience from Sequoia Consulting Group and ADP TotalSource.
Industry Insights
A report from the Transaction Advisors Institute indicates that while 91% of corporate acquirers consider human capital requirements during deals, only 46% utilize those insights in deal formulation. This highlights a significant gap where Black’s expertise is crucial.
Esarey’s background in business consulting allows him to align benefits strategies with overarching business goals, making him a valuable asset in the current landscape.
Market Dynamics
As employer healthcare costs surge—recording a 6% increase over the past year—employer expectations for advisers are shifting. A recent Lockton survey revealed a notable increase in emphasis on cost reduction, now ranked as the top priority for 54% of employers. This change underscores the demand for advisers who can navigate the complexities of benefits strategy and workforce economics.
Growth Projections
The U.S. employee benefits brokerage market, valued at $34.74 billion in 2022, is anticipated to expand to $70.11 billion by 2032, driving significant consolidation in the industry. This environment presents opportunities for advisory firms like Alliant, eager to attract talent capable of meeting evolving client needs.
