Branch Manager

Job Description The Farmers Insurance Rich Merso Agency in Midland is seeking a driven, entrepreneurial Manager Trainee who is business‑minded, motivated to grow, and hungry for long‑term career opportunity. This is an in‑office position located in Midland, Michigan, ideal for someone who wants more than a job and is ready to learn how a business operates while building a path toward leadership and expanded responsibilities. This position offers a competitive base salary, plus commission and performance‑based bonuses. This role is designed for individuals who want to develop leadership skills while gaining hands‑on experience in both the operational and sales sides of the agency. You will work directly with clients, support team performance, and learn the day‑to‑day functions that drive agency growth. The position provides a structured learning environment that rewards initiative, accountability, and results. Working closely with agency leadership, you will gain experience mentoring peers, coordinating team efforts, and understanding the business side of insurance. This is a growth‑focused opportunity for someone who wants to take ownership of their career, build real business acumen, and position themselves for future leadership and advancement. Candidates must have active Michigan Property & Casualty and Life, Accident & Health insurance licenses, or be willing to obtain them. If you are not currently licensed, free pre‑licensing education is available to help you meet the state requirements. If you are motivated, competitive, and ready to build a career with long‑term growth potential, this role offers the training, structure, and opportunity to move forward. Responsibilities Generate new business through a mix of inbound and outbound sales activities, including phone, text, email, and virtual outreach Conduct cold and warm calling to prospective customers, referral sources, and prior leads to build a consistent sales pipeline Follow up promptly on incoming leads, web inquiries, and walk‑in prospects to identify coverage needs and close opportunities Build relationships within the Midland community by attending local events, networking, and developing partnerships that create referral opportunities Meet with customers in person, by phone, or virtually to review their current coverage and provide tailored insurance solutions Educate clients on coverage options, risk exposures, and protection strategies to help them make informed decisions Deliver a high level of service by handling policy changes, questions, renewals, and claims support, ensuring a strong customer experience Identify cross‑sell and upsell opportunities within the existing book of business to increase account value and retention Maintain accurate activity, pipeline, and customer records within agency systems and CRM tools Stay current on Farmers products, underwriting guidelines, coverage options, and promotions to confidently present solutions and remain competitive Support agency growth goals by consistently meeting or exceeding production and activity targets Collaborate with the agency team to improve processes, share best practices, and contribute to a positive, performance‑driven environment Requirements Must be willing to work in‑office in Midland, Michigan Active Michigan Property & Casualty and Life, Accident & Health insurance licenses, or willingness to obtain them within a specified timeframe If not currently licensed, candidates must be willing to complete pre‑licensing education (free pre‑licensing support available) Strong interest in sales, business development, and long‑term career growth Entrepreneurial mindset with the desire to take ownership of results and build a career, not just hold a position Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to build trust and rapport quickly Comfortable making outbound calls, following up on leads, and engaging in daily sales activity Self‑motivated, competitive, and goal‑oriented with the ability to work independently and stay accountable Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and follow through consistently Professional presence and the ability to interact with clients in person, virtually, and over the phone Basic computer proficiency and comfort using CRM systems, email, and standard business software Ability to participate in local networking and community activities to support business development High school diploma or equivalent required; college degree or prior sales, customer service, or leadership experience preferred but not required #J-18808-Ljbffr