JZJ Insurance Services, Inc., Named 2020 EXIM New Broker of the Year

(Ex-Im Bank) Ohio Small Business Relies on Decades-Long Experience to Support U.S. Exporters

WASHINGTON — JZJ Insurance Services, Inc. (link is external), a specialized insurance agency headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, has been named New Broker of the Year by the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) for its exemplary service and commitment to small business exporters. The company was honored during EXIM’s 2020 Annual Conference, the largest conference in the agency’s history, which is being held virtually September 9-11.

JZJ was founded in March 2019 by principals with more than 30 years of service, focusing on trade credit and political risk insurance for small and medium-sized businesses. Under the leadership of President Jack Johnstone, JZJ brokered 53 EXIM multi-buyer and single-buyer policies in less than a year. As a result, JZJ was EXIM’s eleventh-largest producer in fiscal year 2019 by authorization count and eighth-largest producer by authorization amount, giving EXIM a strong new partner in the small business brokerage market.

“EXIM’s broker partners play a critical role in supporting small business exporters, and we are pleased to honor the exemplary service and commitment demonstrated by JZJ Insurance Services, Inc.,” said EXIM President and Chairman Kimberly A. Reed. “We at EXIM look forward to continuing to work with them, and the entire broker community, to support America’s small businesses as they export their ‘Made in the USA’ goods and services worldwide.”

Export credit insurance accounts for the majority of EXIM’s authorizations, most of which is distributed by insurance brokers like JZJ. These brokers provide industry and product expertise that ensures their exporting customers obtain the most appropriate coverage at the most affordable price.

“JZJ and our clients have received tremendous support from EXIM underwriters, staff, and regional offices over the last year,” said JZJ President Johnstone. “Throughout this period of economic uncertainty and global distress, clients have been able to continue exporting with confidence because EXIM has been steadfast in its coverage, renewals, and claim payments. It has been a challenging time, and we are deeply appreciative of everyone at EXIM for maintaining a positive attitude, a professional approach, and a welcoming reception for our calls, emails, and advocacy. Thanks to all!”

U.S. companies, particularly small businesses, can utilize EXIM’s financing tools and resources to increase their international sales, showcase their “Made in the USA” products, and sustain American jobs. By partnering with EXIM, exporters can mitigate the risk of nonpayment on international sales, offer credit terms to foreign buyers, and access working capital loan guarantees. In addition, EXIM has implemented several COVID-19 (coronavirus) relief measures for U.S. exporters and financial institutions to enhance the agency’s existing programs.