Our Story
Welcome to Celina Insurance Group
Our dream is to build an enduring insurance organization that provides more certainty in an uncertain world, while creating a remarkable customer experience and being more friendly, helpful and responsive than anyone thought possible.
Our Core Values
Do What Is Right
Our approach to every decision is based on doing what is right and ethical, regardless of the outcome.
Stronger Together
We work to serve each other, succeeding as a team, not just as individuals.
Get The Job Done
We work hard and strive to be innovative, knowing it’s important to work smart.
Empowered By Change
We view change as an opportunity to evolve as a company and as individuals.
Make A Difference
We strive for success as a company, building upon that success to be a positive force in the world.
Who We Are
Founded in 1914, Celina Insurance Group offers auto, home, business and farm coverage exclusively to independent agents in five states: Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, West Virginia and Kentucky. Our four mutual insurance companies are owned by our policyholders.
A Company is Born
The State of Ohio chartered The National Mutual Automobile Association. The company could write only automobile fire insurance. Its first association members included 20 Celina, Ohio residents.
First Claim
The association had its first fire loss when an auto was destroyed in a paint shop. Business was handled out of a two-room office with one clerk.
Expansion
The Celina Mutual Casualty Company was organized to manage the liability lines. The same men of vision led this enterprise.
A Steady Hand
E.J. Brookhart guided the companies through two world wars and the Great Depression. Despite these hardships, no layoffs occurred.
Main Street Headquarters
The companies grew from two rooms into a two-story building on Main Street, Celina.
C.M. Montgomery
Upon Brookhart’s death in 1950, his brother-in-law, C.M. Montgomery, was elected general manager and secretary of both companies.
Don Montgomery
C.M.’s son, Don W. Montgomery, joined the companies as general counsel. He had formerly been an Assistant Attorney General for Ohio and Prosecuting Attorney for Mercer County.
New Home Office
A new home office building was dedicated at 1 Insurance Square in Celina.
Landscaping Award
The American Association of Nurserymen, Inc., awarded the company with its prestigious Commercial Landscaping Award. Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson personally presented the award to Don Montgomery.
Building Expansion
The Celina Insurance Group expanded the corporate headquarters building.
Bill Montgomery
Don’s son, William W. “Bill” Montgomery, joined the group. Bill is a graduate of DePauw University, received his law degree from Ohio Northern University School of Law and served two terms in the Indiana House of Representatives.
New Leadership
William W. Montgomery was elected president and chief operating officer of the companies.
90th Anniversary
Celina Insurance Group celebrated its 90th anniversary. The company was also recognized with the Mercer County Community Business of the Year award.
Chairman of the Board
William W. Montgomery was elected Chairman of the Board of the Celina Insurance Group companies.
100 Year Celebration
Celina Insurance Group celebrated 100 years in business. A time capsule was commissioned to commemorate the milestone and is currently on display at the Home Office.
Rating Upgrade
AM Best, a nationally recognized independent insurance rating authority, upgraded Celina Insurance Group’s Financial Strength Rating to A (Excellent). For the latest Best’s Credit Rating, access ambest.com.
Why Choose Celina
Protect What You Value Most
Celina provides insurance protection for autos, homes, businesses and farms through more than 500 independent agencies in five states.
Trusted Advisor
Each underwriter serves as a trusted advisor to our agency force. They help our agents provide the right insurance policy for each customer.
Personal Approach
Our marketing representatives serve and support our agency partners with a personal, hands-on approach. We understand that each agency’s needs are different, and our reps are equipped with the right tools to add value across many different situations.
You Speak. We Listen.
Our approach to innovation starts with customer feedback. We use it to meet our customers’ expectations and deliver a superior experience.
Get Back to Your Life
The unexpected can happen and disrupt your life. Our claims representatives will guide you through the claims process and set you on the path to rebuilding your life.
Life Happens
Your life evolves and your insurance needs may change. Rely on your independent agent to ensure you are protected.
Meet the Leadership Team
Bill Montgomery
Chairman, President and CEO
Ted Wissman
Sr. Vice President – COO
Suzanne Wells
Sr. Vice President – CFO and Treasurer
Rob Shoenfelt
Sr. Vice President – CIIO
Scott Montgomery
Vice President of Distribution
and Corporate Secretary
Trisha Harlamert
Vice President of Underwriting