Iselin, NJ, May 14, 2018—U.S. Retirement & Benefits Partners (USRBP) announced today the recipients of their inaugural “DUGHI Award of Excellence.”  The award, named for retired USRBP co-founder Robert C. Dughi, is presented in recognition of outstanding service to the financial services and employee benefits industry.  The recipients of the award are Dan Jund and Ed Stringer, who both now serve as consultants to USRBP.

Dan Jund co-founded USRBP Partner Firm, National Benefit Partners (NBP), in 2005.  Through best-in-class products and services, Dan and his partners grew NBP into the leading IMO in the voluntary benefits market.  Prior to starting NBP, Dan was President and CEO of Transamerica Assurance Company and Chief Marketing Officer for Transamerica/Occidental. In 1990 he assumed responsibility for Transamerica’s start­up Worksite Marketing Company in developing an innovative worksite product portfolio, and growing sales from less than $1 million in 1990 to $80+ million by year­ end 2001.

Ed Stringer co-founded USRBP Partner Firm, SF&C Insurance Associates, Inc., in 1981.  Under his leadership, SF&C maintains the superior reputation it has built with both carriers and employer groups.  The firm has been dedicated to providing quality, union member-paid benefits with the most flexible underwriting and pricing available.

USRBP President and CEO, Mark Skinner, said, “Throughout their careers, Ed and Dan have made significant pioneering contributions to the employee benefits industry.  As consultants to USRBP, we value their expertise and insights as our company continues to grow and evolve.”