Central’s Regional Large Construction Underwriting Specalist

Central’s large construction team is growing, and at the heart of this expansion is Brian Shaffer, construction underwriting specialist. With nearly 25 years of experience in insurance—most of it specializing in construction underwriting—he brings a wealth of knowledge, strong industry relationships, and a deep commitment to delivering value to policyholders and agents.

We sat down with Shaffer, who is certified as a Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS) and has earned the Associate in Management (AIM), to discuss his journey into insurance, his vision for Central’s large construction unit in the Midwest, and what sets Central apart in this competitive market.

From Hospitality to Insurance: A Career Built on Adaptability

Interestingly, Shaffer didn’t start his career in insurance. A graduate of The Ohio State University, he initially pursued hospitality management and worked in hotel operations. However, the demanding hours and lack of work-life balance led him to explore other opportunities. Through a family connection, he leaped into the insurance industry—a decision that changed his career trajectory for the better.

“Every day in insurance is different,” Shaffer says. “That’s what really drew me in. I wasn’t sure if it would be my final career move, but once I got into it, I knew I had found the right place.”

A Specialist in Construction Underwriting

Over the years, his career evolved from middle-market underwriting to construction specialization. He became a contractor risk transfer specialist, which led to opportunities to train underwriters and agents on construction-specific risks. Seven years ago, he decided to focus exclusively on construction underwriting, recognizing the industry’s shift toward specialization.

Why Central? A Vision for Growth in Construction Underwriting

Shaffer joined Central’s large construction team just three months ago, and three key factors drove his decision:

    1. A Clear Vision: Scott Zemberi’s leadership and vision for Central’s construction division inspired him. Having worked with Zemberi for nearly 20 years, he knew he wanted to be part of this new chapter. 

    2. A True Family Atmosphere: Many companies claim to have a family-oriented culture, but Shaffer truly felt it the moment he stepped through Central’s doors, which is a rarity in the insurance industry. 

    3. Unwavering Support: From upper leadership to front-line teams, the level of support and collaboration at Central stood out as exceptional. 

“You feel wanted here, and you feel like you can bring a lot of value,” he states.

A Focus on Relationships and Service

One theme that runs through Shaffer’s entire career is his emphasis on relationships. Whether working with policyholders, independent agents, or his internal teams, he believes that strong relationships are the foundation of success.

“You can be the most knowledgeable construction underwriter, but if you’re not relatable and accessible, those relationships won’t thrive,” Shaffer explains. “Something as simple as answering the phone or responding to an email promptly can make all the difference in building trust. Plus, I’m a big believer in getting in front of as many policyholders and potential policyholders as often as possible. I think it matters to them when you take the time to meet them and learn. It’s a relationship business.”

In his role, Shaffer works closely with independent Central agents, evaluating new and existing accounts. He collaborates with Shawn Gentry in Loss Control, ensuring construction policyholders receive hands-on loss control support. This team service approach is something Shaffer believes sets Central apart from other carriers, as he wants insureds to look at Central as a company that has shown more interest in their operations than any other carrier they may have worked with.

He understands that risk managers with large construction companies are very proud of what they’ve built. “We find ways to bring value as a partner without telling them how to run their business – our goal is to be an asset for each other,” he highlights. 

Get insights like this right in your inbox. Subscribe to the Central Blog below.

Navigating a Competitive Insurance Market

Large construction insurance is highly competitive, especially in the Midwest—a region Shaffer oversees, which includes Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. With so many carriers vying for business, Shaffer knows that differentiation is key.

“Our goal is to be the most engaged and relationship-driven carrier in the space,” Shaffer explains. “We want our policyholders to see us as a partner who truly understands their business—not just another insurance provider.”

The Future of Large Construction at Central

Central’s Large Construction unit is still in its early stages, but the vision for growth is clear. The team began in the Southeast and has now expanded into the Central region, with plans for continued national growth.

“My vision is to develop strong relationships with agents and help position Central as a go-to-market for large construction accounts,” Shaffer says. “We have the people, products, and services to be a major player in this space, and I’m excited to be part of that journey and watch it grow.”

For him, success means strengthening the relationships he has in the industry to drive profitable growth in Central’s construction vertical while sharing his construction knowledge with underwriters who don’t have the same construction background. It also includes mentoring underwriters with a desire to focus on construction and help them pave a path into construction specialist roles in the future.

A Commitment to Excellence

Shaffer’s expertise, relationship-driven approach, and passion for construction underwriting make him a valuable asset to Central’s policyholders and agents. As the Midwest’s large construction team continues to grow, his leadership will play a critical role in shaping its success.

“What makes us unique is our commitment to listening, building relationships, and providing exceptional service,” he emphasizes. “We’re not just another carrier—we’re a true partner to our agents and policyholders.”

With professionals like Shaffer leading the way, Central’s large construction team is well-positioned for a strong and successful future.