Rancho Mesa Move Becomes Official with Signing of Lease

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications & Client Services Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa President Dave Garcia pictured signing lease with Joe Virgilio and Liza Strom of Strom Commercial.

The upcoming Rancho Mesa move to Mission Valley has become official with the signing of the office floor lease. On Monday, May 23, 2022 Rancho Mesa President Dave Garcia sat down with real estate brokers Liza Strom and Joe Virgilio of Strom Commercial to sign the lease.

With contracts officially underway, Rancho Mesa is excited to move into the design phase of this project. Given the vast space at the new location, there is freedom to configure an in-house studio where podcasts and video projects will continue to come to life, with improved technology. An overall modern industrial design, and ample room is perfect for allowing company growth in the coming years.

Centrally located in San Diego, the office is steps away from the Rancho Mesa suite at Snapdragon Stadium.

“I want to thank my attorney Li-An Leonard of Buchalter and our real estate brokers for all their expertise, support and guidance – as they say it takes a village,” says Dave Garcia. “I can’t wait to have everyone back in one office and feel that team energy every day.”

Watch a video below, outlining the features of the new office.

Summit Club Anticipation Rises as New, Returning Staff Prepare for Trip

Author, Megan Lockhart, Media Communications and Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa is excited for its upcoming annual Summit Club trip in May. This year our staff heads to Sedona, Arizona to enjoy a luxury resort experience in the Boynton Canyon, filled with mountain biking, hiking, golfing, and relaxing by the pool.

This trip celebrates our employees and their hard work in a unique destination each year. As the trip quickly approaches, we’d like to highlight some of our new and returning attendees.

Media Communications and Client Services Manager Alyssa Burley and Account Manager Yvonne Gallagher are attending their first Summit Club trip this year celebrating five years with Rancho Mesa. 

“I feel appreciative to RMI for providing this to both myself and my husband. We are both really excited to attend. I am looking forward to relaxing and exploring Sedona,” Gallagher said.

While sales staff enjoy these trips when they acquire a certain level of business, other team members also get the opportunity to attend for their years dedicated to the company.

“I know a lot of companies have trips to recognize sales achievements and that’s important, but when Char and I started Rancho Mesa, it felt it was equally important to recognize our amazing support staff for their efforts, so we include them along with their significant other in our trips,” Dave Garcia, President of Rancho Mesa, said. “They attend our Summit Club trips on each five year anniversary with us, so just an amazing trip with truly amazing people.”

Another first-timer is a member of our sales team, Rory Anderson, who will celebrate his sales achievements in Sedona with his wife, Alex.

“Alex and I are both super excited for the trip. We've both never been to Sedona and we've heard it's stunning, so we're thrilled to get an opportunity to relax and check out its natural beauty,” Anderson said. “I think simply getting away from the city with the Rancho Mesa family and spending time together in the mountains is what I'm looking forward to the most.”

The trip will also see some returners. Christina Haake travels with the company for her second Summit Club after ten years with Rancho Mesa. 

“I can’t believe I’ve been at Rancho Mesa for ten years, but I am so excited about going to Summit Club this time. We have a lot of first timers and I can’t wait for them to have this experience,” Haake said. “Also, I am excited that my producer, Kevin Howard, will be going on the trip as well. We work so hard together as a team and I can’t wait to celebrate with him.”

Rancho Mesa values the camaraderie within our team. We are excited for our employees and their families to enjoy this year’s relaxing getaway in the Arizona canyons.

“Sharing these experiences with them is a gift to all of us that continues to be relived regularly with all the shared stories from the trips. I really believe it has brought us closer as a company and is one way to recognize them for their efforts in making Rancho Mesa special,” Garcia said.

Rancho Mesa Honored at NAWIC Anniversary Celebration

Author, Megan Lockhart, Media Communications and Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s Amber Webb and Alyssa Burley pictured holding their NAWIC award plaques.

Information provided by NAWIC.

Rancho Mesa and its employees were honored to be presented three awards at the NAWIC San Diego 64th Annual Anniversary and Executive Night, on Tuesday, April 12.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Diego Chapter held its annual anniversary night celebration. Rancho Mesa was named the Company of the Year for “contributions to advancing the education and careers of women in construction.”

“We are so honored to be recognized as the Company of the Year by NAWIC, it’s an outstanding organization that’s dedicated to the career growth and development for women in construction. We are very proud to be a part of their efforts,” Rancho Mesa President, Dave Garcia said.

Account Executive Amber Webb was presented with the President’s Award for her strong leadership and dedication to the organization.

“I feel honored to be given the 1st NAWIC San Diego Chapter President’s Award. When I went to my first NAWIC meeting back in 2015, I knew this group of women was special and that I wanted to be part of it,” Webb said. “I want to thank Madam President, Shelby Ballow, for this recognition, her friendship, and all her hard work getting our chapter back up and running after all that we have been through.”

Media Communications and Client Services Manager Alyssa Burley also took home the 5-year membership award during the award ceremony. Attendees enjoyed dinner, scholarship winner announcements, and a presentation regarding the Terminal 1 redesign of the San Diego Airport by keynote speaker, Robert Bolton.

Rancho Mesa and its employees are passionate about supporting the career opportunities for women in construction, and we are proud that our employees can make a difference through this organization.

“I want to help encourage as many women as possible to see their potential in this male dominated industry,” Webb said. “Over the years, I have learned so much from all the people I have had the pleasure of meeting through NAWIC and feel so fortunate to be able to give back to the community.

About NAWIC
NAWIC has over 115 chapters throughout the United States that provide its members with opportunities for professional development, education, networking, leadership training, public service and more. NAWIC continues the vision of its founding members by advocating for the value and impact of women builders, professionals and tradeswomen in all aspects of the construction industry. To learn more, visit www.nawic.org.

Daniel Frazee and Paul Zamora Team up for the Win

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications & Client Services Manager, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s Executive Vice President Daniel Frazee and ICW Group’s Senior Vice President of Workers’ Compensation Paul Zamora pose together with the coveted trophy signifying their win at last year’s golf retreat.

In preparation for this year’s trip, Zamora brought the perpetual trophy into the Rancho Mesa office which allowed for a quick photo op and friendly banter about the games to be played in a few weeks.

Annually, the pair team up to play a few rounds against Standard Drywall’s President Bob Caya and Rancho Mesa’s President Dave Garcia, while in Lake Tahoe.

Outings like these allow for carriers and insureds to get to know each other on a more personal level.

In a few weeks, the 2022 winning team will be added to the trophy.

Uniting the Team: Rancho Mesa Announces Move to New Office

Author, Megan Lockhart, Media Communications and Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

On Thursday, March 10th, the Rancho Mesa team gathered at the La Mesa Brigantine Seafood Restaurant to hear President Dave Garcia announce the company’s plan to move to a new office, located in Mission Valley.

Excitement flooded the room amid the appetizers and cocktails as Garcia outlined the long-awaited reuniting of the two offices into one space in April 2023.

“When I made the announcement I was blown away with the excitement I saw and felt from the group,” Garcia said. “They all have missed being together and can’t wait for next February when this becomes a reality.”

The presentation showed a video created by Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Alyssa Burley, which outlined the new features of the larger floor plan, one being the expansion of our safety and risk management network, StudioOne™. 

“I’m excited for the new office. We’re completely reimagining our StudioOne™ by incorporating new technology and improving its functionality. I can’t wait to see what the Media Communications and Client Services Group will accomplish in this new space,” Burley said.

The building includes a gym, outdoor seating area, and a rustic industrial interior. The location is also within walking distance of the Snapdragon Stadium, aka Aztec’s Stadium, where Rancho Mesa plans to hold meetings with clients in its box suit. 

The move marks an important goal achieved since 2019 when the team was divided into two offices. Garcia has worked hard since then to make the transition back into one office a reality.  

“I couldn’t be more excited to have everyone back together. This will not only enhance our abilities to serve our clients and their needs but allows our team to interact and grow on a daily basis,” Garcia said.

The presentation also featured words from Vice President Sam Clayton, and Account Manager Christina Haake who praised the work environment and employee opportunities Rancho Mesa offers.

“I was honored that he picked me to speak about the career opportunities that are offered here.  It's really incredible to see how much we’ve grown over the years, especially up to this point now that we're moving to such a bigger space,” Haake said. 

Rancho Mesa is thrilled to make this long anticipated announcement and looks forward to how it will benefit the company’s success as well as the clients we serve.

“Probably a little contrary to the current business climate as to the need for office space, we’ve taken the opposite position and are adding several thousand square feet to what we have now in two offices,” Garcia said.  “Everyone here believes very strongly that we will continue to grow at 15% a year and I for one am not about to doubt this amazing team and their abilities to make this happen.”

Video: Lead the Way in 2022

Rancho Mesa’s annual video highlighting the company’s theme for the year premiered at the company-wide virtual kick-off meeting on January 14, 2022.

Whether your organization’s specialty is building our community’s infrastructure or molding our communities’ character and well-being, Rancho Mesa is here to lead the way in 2022.

© Copyright 2022. Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved.

Transcript

Through our workers’ compensation Key Performance Indicator dashboard, we’ll provide the data and analysis your organization’s leadership needs to make informed business decisions.

Minimize the impact of workers’ compensation claims on your organization using our in-house claims advocacy service and ensure your employees get the care and respect they deserve throughout the process.

Our innovative technology platforms and personalized approach to risk management ensures you have the right tools and expertise when you need them.

Build confidence that your business is in compliance with the latest legislative requirements with our smart employee handbooks. Get personalized expert advice from live human resources professionals when you need help navigating the ever-changing labor market.

Our RM365 HRAdvantage™ portal is your one-stop-shop for managing your human resources.

Establish a safety culture with our Risk Management Center. Show your employees their well-being is most important to you and directly affects the overall health of the organization. 

Your dedicated client services coordinators will guide your team on a path to risk management, pointing out best practices along the way for generating OSHA logs, and implementing effective training programs.

Stay informed with StudioOne™, our safety and risk management network. Listen to interviews with industry leaders on your favorite podcast platform. Gain access to safety and risk management experts at our workshops and webinars. Tune in for on-demand video tutorials and training classes that fit your schedule.

Your Rancho Mesa team is here to walk you through managing your risks.

Join us, we’ll lead the way.

Developing solutions, building trust, protecting clients - one relationship at a time.

Rancho Mesa President Receives ICW Coin Designation

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications & Client Services Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

On Tuesday, November 23, 2021 Rancho Mesa’s President Dave Garcia received an eminent award from ICW Group.

Dave is the first outside of ICW Group to receive ‘The Coin,’ for embracing above and beyond characteristics and visionary business practices.

‘The Coin’ encompasses four main qualities; honor, integrity, passion, and focus. From valuing our commitments, our communities and each other, to focusing on the details and putting our customers first, Rancho Mesa has indeed embodied these attributes.

“I was completely surprised and honored to receive this recognition and be the first outside of their company to receive it – a true OneofOne moment I will always remember,” says Dave Garcia, President of Rancho Mesa.

About ICW Group
Based in San Diego, ICW Group Insurance Companies is the largest privately held group of insurance companies domiciled in California. ICW Group is recognized nationally as an industry leader in helping policyholders achieve fewer and less costly claims, and is committed to meeting the needs of its policyholders and elevating the trusted agents and brokers who advise them. To learn more, visit www.icwgroup.com.

IIAB San Diego Hosts Celebrity Waiters Holiday Party for Charity

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

For 31 years, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of San Diego (IIAB San Diego) have hosted its Annual Celebrity Waiters Holiday Party for Charity. 

Industry leaders gathered on Friday, December 3, 2021 at the Bahia Resort Hotel on San Diego’s Mission Bay to raise funds for the Burn Institute and Healing Wave Aquatics.  Toys and canned foods were also collected for the El Nido Transitional Housing Program at Interfaith Shelter Network.

Rancho Mesa Vice Presidents Sam Clayton and Sam Brown along with Account Executives Kevin Howard and Amber Webb, Associate Account Executive Jack Marrs, Account Managers Christina Haake, John Parker, and Megan Smidt, with Account Coordinator Rachel Bristol celebrated the holidays and the spirit of giving while supporting the IIAB‘s efforts to raise awareness and much needed funds for local charities.

Sam Clayton, the outgoing IIAB San Diego President, introduced the incoming Board of Directors at the annual event. While his term nears its conclusion, it’s not the end to Rancho Mesa’s support of the philanthropic endeavors of the organization.

Rancho Mesa is proud to be a member of the IIAB San Diego.

IIAB Celebrates Another Successful I-Day

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s staff celebrated with Sam Clayton, the company’s Vice President of the Construction Group and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of San Diego (IIAB) President, at the annual Greater San Diego Insurance Day (I-DAY) on October 27, 2021.

I-DAY is known within the insurance industry as the largest one-day trade fair and seminar in California. The event hosted insurance companies, their agents, carriers, vendors, sponsors and others who support the industry.

The highlight of the event was the luncheon.

“It's hard to believe that we're finally here,” Sam began his address to a ballroom of industry leaders. “Our last I-DAY was almost two and a half years ago in April 2019. I just want to say thanks for being here and your support over the last 18 months. Without all of you in this room, there is no association.”

He acknowledged the efforts of past association presidents, current committee chairs and directors while adapting to the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

Despite pandemic restrictions, he mentioned the good that came from the last year.  

“We were able to raise over $7,000 for the Burn Institute,” Sam praised the membership for their efforts. “We were able to raise $5,000 for the San Diego Foundation's COVID 19 Response Fund.”

Guest speaker, MLB Studio analyst, and former outfielder/first baseman Mark Sweeney closed the luncheon with an inspirational talk about how certain people can change their lives.

The day was a success as Rancho Mesa staff was able to visit with long-time industry partners in the exhibit hall while learning about new players in the insurance space.

Happy Halloween from Rancho Mesa

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications & Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Happy Halloween from the Rancho Mesa Santee and La Mesa, CA offices. This year the Rancho Mesa team was able celebrate Halloween together once again. On Friday, October 29, 2021 team members Sierra Stone, Whitney Chiriboga, Megan Lockhart, Sara Scheuneman, Yvonne Gallagher, Christina Haake, Ashley Hunter, Alyssa Burley, Megan Smidt, Daniel Bondesson, Maria Lotta, Daniel Frazee, and Rachel Bristol put on their costumes and participated in the Halloween spirit.

We hope everyone had a safe and fun Halloween!