“Pay your employees well and treat them even better.”

That’s the core principle behind Mackoul Risk Solutions, according to CEO Ed Mackoul. The Long Beach, New York–based insurance agency earned the 2025 Best Agencies to Work For Silver Award in the East region from Insurance Journal.

“Everything we do revolves around our employees,” Ed said. “Many businesses claim the client comes first, but our philosophy is simple: employees come first.”

A Workplace That Values Its People

Staff who nominated the agency describe a culture of respect and recognition.

“We feel appreciated every day,” one employee said. “It makes a huge difference to work for people who truly value you.”

Another employee highlighted the agency’s work-life balance and benefits: “Mackoul Risk Solutions is the best place to work because employees are treated exceptionally well. We’re recognized for our hard work, can work from home, and still enjoy team-building events.”

Growth Through Employee Focus

Ed attributes the agency’s growth to prioritizing employees.

“When I joined in 1995, it was a small family-run agency,” he said. “We’ve grown a lot since then, but our people-first approach hasn’t changed. We want our employees to succeed and be happy while doing so, which means supporting a healthy work-life balance.”

He believes flexibility is essential in today’s insurance market.

“Many agencies still don’t allow remote work,” Ed noted. “That’s a missed opportunity. We operate fully remotely but have office workstations available for those who want to come in. A hybrid model works well, too.”

Remote hiring has expanded the agency’s talent pool. “We’ve brought in great employees from out of state,” Ed said. “Some worry remote work weakens culture, but we’ve found ways to maintain it.”

Building Connections

Mackoul Risk Solutions invests in both in-person and virtual team-building activities.

“Last month, we went to a golf simulator for contests like longest drive and closest to the pin,” Ed said. “We shared drinks and snacks, had fun, and laughed a lot.”

While remote employees may not attend every event in person, the agency ensures everyone joins the annual holiday celebration.

“The company encourages us to get to know our coworkers on a deeper level,” one employee said. “It builds mutual respect and strengthens teamwork.”

Promoting Flexibility

Ed encourages other agency leaders to offer remote work options.

“Remote work benefits employees and, in the long run, benefits the employer,” he said. “It also opens up a wider pool of talent.”

Recognition That Counts

While the agency has received multiple awards, Ed said this one is especially meaningful.

“This award matters most because it reflects employee happiness,” he said. “That’s what makes it truly special.”

His advice to other leaders: “Always put your employees first. Pay them well, treat them even better, provide the tools to succeed, offer growth opportunities, and keep an open door so employees feel heard and valued.”