The Partners Group is pleased to welcome Jim Russel, managing principal of Jim Russel Consulting, as part of TPG’s Employee Benefits division. The acquisition of his company was finalized in July, taking effect on August 1, 2023.
“I’d long been thinking about it the abstract, as a way to close a chapter,” says Russel. But a short-term health issue early this year was the catalyst for change. “Five years ago, I would have kept going,” he explains. “But after years of virtually no sick days, it hit home that my continued good health and ability to travel aren’t necessarily guaranteed.”
He jokes that he’s one of “the only guys out there” with an undergraduate degree in finance and insurance, thanks to a college professor with whom he became close. After receiving his BA from Drake University (Des Moines, IA), Russel became a large group underwriter but soon realized he’s not the “home office insurance” type. He prefers being out in the field with clients. He moved to Portland to join his future wife, where he worked for national and regional firms and earned an MBA from the University of Portland. In 2014, he started his own firm.
“My company was really a lifestyle,” he says. “I handpicked my team as well as my clients. It became a philosophy in this last phase of my work – I enjoy working with thoughtful clients who respond well to advice. I make sure they are well cared for.”
This sentiment resonates strongly with TPG’s philosophy. Our five core values – play well with others, own it, be a champion, have fun and live well, and be curious – are instilled into everything we do. When asked which of these values resonates with him, Russel says it’s to be curious. “It’s the reason why this career never gets old,” he explains. “It’s always new and changing, and we have to stay on top of it by asking questions and continuing to learn.”
Having been in the industry for more than four decades, Russel is a true insurance and benefits pro. And his values align well with those of TPG. “Since 1983, I’ve made lots of relationships and know who the marketplace respects. [In this next phase,] I was looking for a collaborative, professional firm with resources that make sense. A place where people find a good home and don’t leave.” With TPG, Jim, you’ve found the right place.
