Palisades President Ed Fernandez Named 2011 PIANJ Company Person of the Year

BERKELEY HEIGHTS, N.J., May 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey (PIANJ) named Ed Fernandez, President, Palisades Companies, the recipient of its prestigious 2011 Company Person of the Year award.  Fernandez will accept the award at a ceremony held in conjunction with the PIANJ annual conference in Atlantic City June 12-15, 2011.  Annually, the PIANJ presents this award to a company representative who fosters a sound working relationship between insurance agents and companies, and who exemplifies a commitment to professionalism and service as a company professional.

"Everyone who has ever worked with Ed knows how valuable his expertise is in balancing the needs of the independent agent and his company," said Donna Cunningham, CPIA, PIANJ president.  "There is no one more committed to these goals than him."

"Since the company's beginnings in 1992, Palisades has remained dedicated to its independent agents," said Fernandez.  "It's a tremendous honor to be recognized for our commitment to that model.  Independent agents, like consumers, have many options when it comes to insurance carriers and the relationship we have with them is the foundation of our success.  It's my pleasure to accept this recognition on their behalf."

Fernandez has been President of Palisades since 2006.  During his tenure as President, he has led Palisades to become one of the largest independent agency insurers in New Jersey.  Fernandez also has a strong community commitment and contributes his time to support many not-for-profit organizations.  In 2011, he was honored for his service to the community by CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).

About Palisades (www.Palisades.com)

Palisades is the Nice New Jersey Car Insurance Company® that gives you more.  Drivers and agents get more reasons to smile with more value, friendly New Jersey expertise, and service done right.  Palisades sells exclusively through over 300 independent agents and is a leader in the fast settlement of claims.  Insurance is written by Palisades Safety and Insurance Association and its two wholly-owned insurers, Palisades Insurance Company and Palisades Property and Casualty Insurance Company (collectively "Palisades") which are Plymouth Rock managed companies.

The Plymouth Rock Companies write and manage more than $1 billion in personal and commercial auto and homeowner's insurance across the Northeast.

About Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey Inc. (PIANJ)

PIANJ is a trade association representing professional, independent insurance agencies, brokerages and their employees throughout the state.

SOURCE Palisades Insurance