We create products and services that create value for our clients and their members. For our affinity clients, their members, and our employees, our philosophy is win-win or no deal. We aim to create value at every step of the process with our deep expertise, relentless commitment to partnership, and a genuine passion for customer experience.
We believe in doing good work for the right reasons. In everything we do, we strive to enhance the spiritual, social, and economic well-being of our employees, our community, and our clients. We will always conduct our business and measure our success based on relationships, not transactions.
The legacy of AGIA started in 1956 when James Wigle pioneered a program using direct mail to market group insurance to identifiable groups. In time, he established a model for creating added value to affinity groups by offering specialized products and services to serve their members. When John Wigle joined AGIA in 1976, he continued to build upon the foundation established by his father with customized products tailored to affinity groups and SMBs.
Today, AGIA builds on the legacy with industry-leading innovations in marketing, expert use of emerging technology, and a commitment to strategic partnerships based on integrity.
With these guiding principles, AGIA is now the largest privately-held third party broker, marketer, and administrator in the affinity marketplace.
President, CEO
Matt joined AGIA as President and CEO in 2023. With more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, Matt brings the expertise and entrepreneurial drive to leverage AGIA’s existing foundation and perpetuate the company’s growth objectives. Matt’s focus is continuing to provide best in class service to our clients and members. We appreciate the partnership and support! Additionally, Matt is positioning the company to expand on core competencies to lead AGIA into new strategic partnerships and new markets. Prior to joining AGIA, Matt served as senior vice president and head of strategic partnerships for Farmers Insurance where he managed their brokered solutions and affinity/partnerships groups across all insurance lines of business. Matt serves as chairman of the board for Independence Hub, a national non-profit focused on helping neuro-divergent people succeed in insurance.
Senior Vice President, COO
Julie joined AGIA in 1987 and serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. She manages all aspects of customer facing and corporate operations, new business onboarding, information systems and human resources. She has extensive financial and process experience including public sector accounting and auditing, as well as nonprofit accounting and consulting in business management and accounting system analysis. Julie serves on the Boards of the following organizations: Board President for Domestic Violence Solutions of Santa Barbara County; Director UCSB Alumni Association; and Business Giving Roundtable Advisory Committee. Previously, Julie has served on: Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara Membership and Steering Committees; Friends of VADA Santa Barbara High School; Santa Barbara Middle School; and Santa Barbara County Parks Foundation.
Senior Vice President Finance, CFO
Andrew joined AGIA in 1990 and serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Under Andrew’s direction, our Corporate Finance Division has achieved high levels of performance in the areas of corporate treasury management, financial reporting, and audit management. In addition to the overall planning, development and management of AGIA’s financial systems, he is also responsible for premium accounting, billing, licensing, risk management, and compliance. Andrew is currently the Board President of Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Santa Barbara, CA.
Chief Marketing officer
Amy Watts serves as Chief Marketing Officer and is responsible for propelling growth by delivering innovative marketing and product strategy for AGIA and its partners. With over 20+ years’ experience in the affinity and direct to consumer marketing industry, Amy specializes in team leadership, marketing strategy, omni-channel marketing and product development. Amy grew AGIA’s non-insurance business significantly over the last decade and is now leading the organization though digital marketing and commerce transformation. She and her team thrive when working to develop strategic solutions to business challenges that focus on the end customer’s needs. Amy truly enjoys mentoring young professionals entering the industry and working collaboratively with her peers to drive profitable growth. Prior to her career in marketing, Amy’s journey began at the University of Michigan. She is an active member of Professional Insurance Marketers Association and also serves the creative community by volunteering for the Ventura County Ballet.
Chief Growth Officer
JJ joined AGIA in 2023 and serves as Chief Growth Officer leading AGIA’s business development, distribution expansion, and new market strategy. With a career spanning over two decades in the insurance industry, JJ consistently demonstrates his ability to propel businesses to new heights and drive revenue growth. His deep understanding of sales and distribution markets, coupled with the talented professionals at AGIA, will undoubtedly be invaluable in driving AGIA growth objectives. Prior to joining AGIA, JJ served as senior vice president and head of the University of Farmers where he led the Hall of Fame training organization developing insurance agents, Farmers employees and executive leaders. JJ is an avid supporter of the West Michigan Girls & Boys Club, an active volunteer at the Grand Rapids YMCA, and a dedicated Detroit Lions fan.
