Kenneth L. Smith, CLU, FLMI

I enjoy direct, personal contact with my clients, because I’m better able to help clients I know well. For over 20 years, my office has catered to small business owners and individuals. It’s a specialty I truly enjoy.

Small business owners of all types have many similarities. They all have budget and time constraints that must be taken into consideration. I like helping small businesses work through bottom-line issues while ensuring they get the maximum product for their money.

A lot of website bios offer reams of career background and credentials. With almost 50 years of experience, I think my longevity speaks for itself. Instead, I’d like to explain why I first got into the insurance business. In 1955, after a four-year stint in the U.S. Air Force, I started working with Prudential Insurance and going to Jacksonville University. After I earned my bachelor’s degree in 1962, I switched to the sales side of insurance with Traveler’s Insurance and later with American Heritage Insurance. I earned my Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) designation in 1970. In 1976, I was designated a Fellow of the Life Management Institute (FLMI).

The corporate insurance business had me feeling like I was living on airplanes. In 1985, I decided to pursue a career change – that of an independent insurance agent. I opened my office in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. and Kenneth L. Smith Insurance Planning Services was born.

I'm active in several civic organizations including the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce, the St Johns County Chamber of Commerce and its Economic Development Council, plus Florida's Small Business Resource Network.

I’m a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, the Society of Financial Service Professionals and the Estate Planning Council of Northeast Florida.

It means a lot to me to be able to work with hard-working people – I feel like I’m helping them take care of some of the most important priorities in their lives. I listen and learn what my clients need; what’s important to them. These conversations remind me how grateful I am for my family and my community. I’m very proud of what my children have been able to accomplish in adulthood and I’m grateful I live in a country and community that gave me the opportunity to succeed in business for myself. It’s given me a chance to make a genuine difference in people’s lives.

For me, insurance isn’t about profits or the bottom-line. It’s about protecting your assets and your loved ones. It’s about helping your business succeed by letting you focus on your job–not worrying about all the “what-ifs.” I want you to enjoy the same kind of life I’m so thankful for.