John K. Handel
The founder of John Handel & Associates, he has extensive experience in the Surplus Lines Insurance industry since 1957. Working for several Lloyd's Brokerage firms in London provided an extensive background in coverages, policy wording, the various techniques of structuring placements, legal responsibilities, and the professional aspects of writing surplus lines business in the United States. After a brief time in New York and New Jersey, he relocated to Florida in 1970. The years from 1970 to 1983 were spent working for three major wholesale surplus line operations on both the Florida east and west coasts. In 1983 he formed and established John Handel & Associates, Inc. in St. Petersburg. Since 1983, with the support of over 20 "A" rated surplus lines companies, the organization has grown and prospered by following the long-established basics of service, knowledge, hard work, reliability and professionalism.

Gail E. Handel
Originally from New York, Gail was educated and grew up in Miami, Florida. By developing many agent and company connections in the insurance business, she helped to establish operations for a major wholesaler located in Miami. She was eventually promoted to Vice President responsible for all operations for the Miami office. In 1983, she moved to St. Petersburg, where she was a partner in the establishment of John Handel & Associates, Inc. Since 1983, she has been directly involved in all aspects of marketing and placing surplus lines business, in addition to financial management duties.

Lorna W. Palmer
Imported from Massachusetts in 1998, Lorna had responsibility for the financial side of JHA. With over 20 years of prior experience in both Commercial and Personal Lines underwriting and management, she has a thorough knowledge of how our business works in addition to her accounting talents. She loves the beach and now that she has "sand in her shoes" is steadily becoming a Floridian. Moving rapidly through the ranks, she became CFO, Executive Vice President and in 2007 assumed the Presidency of JHA with overall responsibility for finance, marketing and underwriting. All it takes is long hours, dedication, sacrifice, a strong sense of humor and a little bit of patience!

Thomas L. Paine, C.I.C.
Tom has rapidly made the transition into the E&S business since he joined in 1995. As Senior Vice President, he has become a valuable addition for both JHA and its agents. His experience working for independent agents in Florida has added to the value for JHA and our agents. He has an intimate knowledge of the E&S markets and the marketing techniques required in the wholesale marketplace. Tom has successfully developed and expanded the personal lines insurance business, enabling JHA to become a leader in the Florida personal lines insurance business. Judging by comments from our agents, his efforts are appreciated and valued highly. Service is the name of the game and Tom will play hard for you.

Mark Riordan
Mark has been with JHA since 1989. Originally engaged for his claims adjustment expertise, he has expanded into the underwriting, service and policy production aspects of JHA's business. A dedicated member of the team, Mark provides a solid base for many aspects of our operations. He enjoys boating, playing guitar (he's good!), and is a proud father. His efforts and ability were thoroughly tested by "Andrew" and the 2004 Hurricanes. Both agents and insureds alike will confirm that he passed with "flying colors."

Tim McNeil
Another long term member of the JHA Team (1989). Tim is our "in-house" computer expert. He is responsible for the programming and laser printing of our policy systems and information reports. The service to our agents, and most of our companies, is the result of his expertise.

Tonya Rivera
One of our "in house" successes, Tonya came to us in 1994 as a part time file clerk. When she graduated from college in 1995 she joined us full time and has been at JHA since then. Somewhere in the middle of learning all she knows, she found time to get married, have 2 boys and become the classic "Soccer Mom". Now, as manager of the Personal Lines Department, she's responsible for the continuing success of our personal lines products.

Cara Knight
Prior to coming on board with JHA in 1998, Cara was a Senior CSR for a National Home Health Care Corporation. Cara's original position at JHA was in our Commercial Department. Cara was an Underwriting assistant when JHA initiated their Excess Flood program and has since grown into the Sr. Excess Flood Underwriter. Cara has played an essential part in the setup of our COBRA flood program through her extensive communications with the carriers and the agents. Born and raised in Florida, Cara is a true Florida Cracker. Family has always been a strong force in her life, and she prides herself on her summers spent in N.C. with her family.

GET ON BOARD WITH JHA!