Company History
GMI, a division of One80 Intermediaries, a managing general agent (MGA) has been a premier writer of commercial auto insurance since 1980. In the beginning, Norman Trudel focused the company solely on the auto rental segment of the transportation industry. Since that time GMI has kept an eye on the insurance marketplace and looked for opportunities that would allow for growth and diversification.
Sticking to our core strength as commercial auto underwriters, we found a need in the marketplace for a monoline business auto program designed specifically for those accounts that are not packaged. Over 20 years ago, we rolled out our Monoline Business Auto program that targets contractors, artisans, building supply dealers, retailers, manufacturers and wholesale distributors.
In subsequent years, we have added Workers’ Compensation, Cannabis Transport, General Liability, Auto Rental Fleet and Contingent Auto Lease programs.
We continue to carry on the family’s tradition of seeking good books of commercial auto business looking for long-term business relationships. We welcome the opportunity to work with you to find the best and most creative solutions for your clients.
Management
Mark Trudel
President
“Responsiveness…We answer our own calls and listen to our clients’ concerns.”
Mark graduated from the University of Connecticut with a major in Economics in 1983. He began his insurance career in 1984 with Skandia America Reinsurance. as a reinsurance underwriter. Mark joined Balis & Co. Inc in 1987 as a reinsurance broker where he was responsible for servicing several of Farm Mutual’s reinsurance needs. In 1989 Mark joined GMI and was appointed President in 1994. As President, he provides oversight to GMI’s operational platform which includes technology and administration. Mark is personally involved underwriting the company's burgeoning leasing and garage business as well as underwriting new and renewal business.
Shawn-Michael Hall Sr.
Chief Operating Officer & Chief Revenue Officer
“Every employee should feel proud of the work they put into any given day…that personal accountability will be passed on to our carriers, clients, and creates our successful trustworthy workplace environment and culture.”
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Shawn began his career in insurance in 2010 at Breckenridge Insurance. Motivated by his loving family and their future, he started out in marketing, he advanced to become Senior Vice President, and then Managing Director of Workers’ Compensation/Regional VP by 2018. During his career he has been recognized by the industry for his strong ethics, solution-focused dedication and high attention to detail. In 2023 Shawn joined GMI as its Chief Operating Officer and Chief Revenue Officer. He is responsible for company-wide operations and leads the Business Auto and Workers’ Compensation programs.
Carter Trudel
Chief Financial Officer
“Relationships…We believe connecting with clients is what retains good business.”
Carter graduated from Brown University in 1992 with a major in Mathematical Economics. He began his insurance career at Transatlantic Re as an underwriter specializing in Finite Treaty. Carter joined GMI in 1994 as their CFO. As CFO, he is responsible for GMI’s financial operations. He also analyzes GMI’s insurer financials and performance. Carter also drives GMI’s rental business, which includes an association that serves the industry.
Michael Trudel
Vice President & Legal Counsel
“Expertise…We not only have auto experience, but also full service to back it up.”
Michael graduated Cum Laude from Villanova University with a major in Finance in 1989. He graduated from Widener University School of Law and was awarded his J.D. in 1992. Michael is a member of the American Bar Association, Law Student Division and is trained in Westlaw and Advanced Lexis. Michael began his legal career with Pennsylvania’s Office of the Attorney General and then moved to a law firm. In 1994 Michael joined GMI as Vice President, Legal Counsel. His responsibilities as Legal Counsel include oversight of GMI's specialized claims operation. Michael is involved in all investigative and claims services and serves as counsel to GMI for new activities, existing vendor, insurer and service contracts.
Karen Trudel
Senior Advisor
“Family Values…We were taught to commit ourselves to our clients’ success.”
Karen graduated from the University of Maryland in 1985. She is a certified Pennsylvania Property/Casualty Insurance Agent and Pennsylvania Property/Casualty Insurance Broker. She joined GMI in 1991 and became the Chief Operating Officer in 2007. Karen served on the Board of Directors of Target Markets, of which GMI was a founding member. Karen provides oversight to GMI's Business Auto specialty programs.
Wendy Watson
Chief Underwriting Officer
“GMI continues to build teamwork with our customers and staff that is the foundation of a prosperous company. A good leader is simply another member of the team.”
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Wendy comes to GMI with extensive experience in underwriting management. She began her insurance career over two decades ago and has amassed extensive transportation niche underwriting knowledge. As CUO, she oversees the underwriting for GMI’s transportation programs. She places the utmost value on service and the development of relationships with business partners and producers. Client-driven initiatives, professionalism, and profitable underwriting are key to her business values.