Hylant Group Names President to New Chicago Office
Thomas O’Connell has joined Hylant Group as President of their newly established office in Chicago.

TOLEDO, Ohio - July 14, 2008 - Hylant Group, one of the nation’s largest privately held commercial insurance brokerage firms, named Thomas O’Connell President of its new office in Chicago.  O’Connell has more than 30 years of industry experience and has held executive leadership roles in the Chicago brokerage community throughout much of that time.

O’Connell will be responsible for the growth, development and success of the new Chicago office.  This includes all aspects of business development and talent management to ensure the office makes an immediate impact in the market.

"Chicago is a key market that Hylant has targeted for aggressive growth.  When Tom accepted the position of President, we knew we were ready," said Hylant Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Michael Hylant.  "We are excited to have someone of Tom’s stature, experience and reputation leading our efforts in Chicago.  The people and the environment make this a perfect time for this move."

Prior to joining Hylant, O’Connell was Senior Vice President of Aon Risk Services in new business development.  He also held several leadership roles in the brokerage industry for several years; including positions with Rollins Burdick Hunter, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. and Near North.

Founded in 1935 and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Hylant Group is a full-service business insurance brokerage with 12 offices in Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Tennessee and employs more than 675 professionals. A member of the Worldwide Broker Network, Hylant offers complete risk management services, employee benefits consultation, loss control, 401(k) and wealth management services, healthcare management and insurance for businesses and individuals. Hylant is one of the largest privately held brokerage firms in the United States and serves a wide variety of clients locally, nationally and internationally.