Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Gallagher
This article appeared in the August 2026 issue of MiMfg Magazine. Read the full issue and find past issues online.
Business leaders that make decisions about employee benefits, expenses, workforce development and growth strategies based on facts instead of emotions or trends often find themselves in a better position to stabilize finances — all while actually increasing employee satisfaction by offering appropriate pay rates.
Approximately 10 percent of a company’s expenses are for employee benefits, such as medical, dental and life insurance, and a business that uses the remaining 90 percent strategically will find itself better positioned to engage and retain employees, says Nick Kamai, Area Executive Vice President with Gallagher.
A global brokerage and risk management firm with two distinct sides — risk management/property casualty and benefit services — Gallagher assists clients in business strategies and decision-making through its comprehensive slate of benefits, human resources and data solutions.
One of the many issues manufacturers are facing is increased health insurance costs, Kamai says. Through the development of innovative strategies, businesses can find cost-saving opportunities and mitigate this risk and other financial strains in order to maintain a competitive benefits program.
The challenge is understanding what’s fair, what’s standard and what’s expected of them, so benchmark surveys, polls and data can arm decisionmakers with the facts they need to maintain a competitive benefits program.
Customized data research can be especially helpful to business owners and HR managers, and Gallagher launches hundreds of surveys annually tailored to each client’s needs, resulting in actionable insights that inform workforce strategy, retention and engagement.
Gallagher also has developed an internal analytics tool, Gallagher Drive, and completes a National Benchmarking Survey every year featuring insights from about 4,000 respondents — both of which help Gallagher’s consultants provide clients with helpful facts. Gallagher’s technology and AI resources are integral to the formulation of tailored solutions for clients, as their consultants identify opportunities based on this data.
“Understanding the economic uncertainty that lies within the manufacturing sector, continuous workforce turnover and shifting employee expectations have been some of the biggest needs that we’ve seen,” Kamai says. “Our job is to be part of that process with them and help them in any way we can so their business can keep moving forward.”
Gallagher uses its people-centered approach and their three pillars — benefits, financial and talent — to align all of a client’s goals. The needs of an HR manager are different than those of a CFO, which differ from a CEO’s, for example, and balancing these needs can optimize compensation and improve company cultures, Kamai adds.
With several of its consultants dedicated solely to manufacturers, Gallagher also serves as a voice for MMA members. By truly understanding clients’ needs based on data and one-on-one conversations with stakeholders, Gallagher’s input can contribute to legislative decisions that impact the business climate in Michigan.
With modern technology and a reliable adviser on hand, manufacturers can use data-based facts to make sound decisions that increase opportunities for financial stability and business growth.
Gallagher is an MMA Premium Associate Member and has been an MMA member company since July 2005. Visit online: ajg.com.