We talk a lot about unique potential here at Holmes Murphy. Each of our employees brings something special to our Property Casualty and Employee Benefits teams, and I’m proud to be part of a culture where we empower our people to embrace their potential and become transformative leaders and changemakers.
A Decade of Changing the Game
This year marks the 10th anniversary of our Game Changers recognition, an annual celebration of five employees who embody our purpose, mission, and Care Code at Holmes Murphy.
Our Purpose
Caring for unique potential is our soul purpose. Yes, we mean soul—this is our guiding principle and why we exist.
Our Mission
What do we do at Holmes Murphy? We make a difference by promoting health, protecting wealth, and delivering peace of mind.
Our Care Code
The Care Code illustrates how we bring our purpose and mission to life with SOUL:
- Seek understanding by leaning in, listening, and learning.
- Operate courageously by always doing the right thing.
- Uplift others by investing in their success.
- Lead differently by being “all in.”
Each year, we announce our Game Changers at the companywide year-end meeting. Across our geographies, we come together to cheer for our friends and colleagues whose impact on Holmes Murphy and our clients has definitely changed the game. I’m honored to recognize this year’s recipients and share a glimpse into what makes them so special.
Chris Spahr
Beyond the support and expertise he provides to clients as a Sr. Financial Consultant for our Employee Benefits team, Chris Spahr has mentored teammates in his area as a Team Lead and across Holmes Murphy as a collaborative and engaged leader. In addition to caring for unique potential, you’ll often hear us say we love what we do and who we do it with here at Holmes Murphy. Chris personifies this idea, which is why it’s no surprise he’s received stellar feedback from clients and colleagues alike.
Halley Ryherd
As the Growth & Development Business Partner for our Brokerage Services team, Halley Ryherd helps our teams level up with thoughtful educational opportunities that meet the needs of the business and help employees understand how to excel in their role. Creative and perceptive, Halley isn’t only a winner at Holmes Murphy—she was a one-day champion on Jeopardy in 2022!
Hillary Shaw
Population Health Manager for Innovative Captive Strategies, Hillary Shaw brings an unmatched level of expertise and credibility to the ICS team. Perhaps best known for her engaging presentation style—and blogs that are equal parts laughing and learning—SVP Joel Hull shared that Hillary ranks among their top presenters at captive meetings. In fact, when asked for feedback, one captive member simply put, “Hillary Shaw for President.”
Leisa Van Den Top
Insurance can be complex, which is why many organizations rely on brokers like Holmes Murphy to help navigate the ever-changing landscape. Strong relationships with carriers are pivotal to designing coverage that works best for the unique needs of a company, and the partnerships built by Carrier Relations Consultant Leisa Van Den Top have made a difference for our business and clients. She raised the bar to provide outstanding support for our people, which is exactly what I’d expect from one of our Game Changers!
Sarah Tritz
We pride ourselves on becoming extensions of our clients’ teams, and Property Casualty Client Service Specialist Sarah Tritz has done exactly that. As the client service team grew in the last few years, Sarah went above and beyond to train more than 20 new team members while providing excellent customer service. We wouldn’t be here without clients who trust us, and Sarah is one of many people at Holmes Murphy who prove that success isn’t about policies placed and accounts serviced—it’s about earning trust and strengthening relationships.
Care Beyond Coverage
2026 has just started, and I’m already looking forward to a great year with these Game Changers and all of our employees across our geographies. Our independence gives us the freedom to create a culture that celebrates connection and care while encouraging us to innovate and grow. With Game Changers like this on our team, I’m confident we’ll rise to the challenge. If you work with Chris, Halley, Hillary, Leisa, or Sarah, reach out and congratulate them on this awesome achievement. And if you’re ready to change the game, don’t forget to check out our current job openings. Cheers!
