“Pay your employees well and treat them even better.”
That’s the guiding principle behind Mackoul Risk Solutions, says CEO Ed Mackoul. The Long Beach, New York–based insurance agency earned the 2025 Best Agencies to Work For Silver Award for the East region from Insurance Journal.
“Everything we do is with our employees in mind,” Ed explained. “A lot of businesses say the client comes first, but for us, our employees come first.”
A Culture of Respect and Appreciation
Team members who nominated the agency describe a workplace where they feel recognized and supported by both leadership and colleagues.
“We feel valued every day,” one employee shared. “It really makes a difference working for people who appreciate you.”
Another employee praised the agency’s focus on work-life balance and strong benefits. “Mackoul Risk Solutions is the best agency to work for because of how well employees are treated,” they said. “We work hard, and that hard work is noticed. We have the flexibility to work from home and still connect with our team during monthly events.”
Growth Through Employee-Centered Leadership
Ed credits the company’s success to its people-first approach.
“When I joined in 1995, we were a small, family-owned agency,” he said. “We’ve grown tremendously since then, but we’ve stayed true to our philosophy. We care about our team, and we want them not only to achieve success but to enjoy it — that means maintaining a healthy work-life balance.”
He believes flexibility is key to thriving in today’s insurance market.
“Some agencies still don’t allow remote work,” Ed noted. “That’s a missed opportunity. We’re fully remote but maintain 10 workstations at our Long Island office for anyone who prefers to come in. A hybrid model works well, too.”
He added that hiring remotely has expanded the agency’s talent pool. “We’ve brought in amazing people from out of state,” he said. “Some think remote work weakens company culture, but we’ve found ways to keep ours strong.”
Keeping the Team Connected
The agency emphasizes connection through team-building activities, both in person and online.
“Last month, we went to a golf simulator for some friendly competition,” Ed said. “We had contests for longest drive and closest to the pin, enjoyed drinks and appetizers, and had a lot of laughs.”
While remote employees can’t always join every event in person, Mackoul makes sure everyone comes together for the annual holiday celebration.
“The company really promotes connection and understanding,” one employee said. “We’re encouraged to get to know our co-workers beyond the surface, which builds respect and teamwork.”
Advocating for Remote Work
Ed encourages other agency leaders to consider flexible work arrangements.
“Remote work benefits everyone,” he said. “It supports employees’ well-being and gives employers access to a wider talent pool.”
Recognition That Reflects Employee Happiness
Although Mackoul Risk Solutions has received numerous honors over the years, Ed said this one feels especially meaningful.
“This award stands out because it’s based entirely on how happy our employees are,” he said. “That’s what makes it truly special.”
His advice to other leaders: “Put your employees first. Pay them well, treat them even better, give them the tools and opportunities to grow, and always keep your door open so they feel heard.”