Profile
“My strongest professional quality is my ability to build trust and long-term relationships, whether with clients, colleagues, or stakeholders”
Danny Ibrahim,
KeyRate Mortgage
With over two decades of industry experience, Brian A. Payne has emerged as a formidable force in the property and casualty (P&C) insurance sector, charting a path of excellence.
As the driving force behind the Field Insurance Agency of Surfside, CEO Payne has transformed a modest regional firm, which he originally joined as an intern in 2003, into one of the nation’s premier privately held insurance brokerages. Today, the firm is a powerhouse in the coastal property space, known for its high-volume excess and surplus lines coverage and its unwavering commitment to clients in catastrophe-prone zones.
Payne’s approach to leadership is deeply rooted in community service, operational efficiency, and cultivating meaningful industry relationships. Under his stewardship, Field Insurance has developed a reputation for reliability and innovation in the high-risk markets it serves.
“We have dedicated positions for some of the high-volume tasks that we do in the office, which allows everyone to work very efficiently and quickly,” he says.
At the core of Field Insurance’s success is Payne’s focus on culture and collaboration. His leadership style emphasizes accessibility, team trust, and client-centric service – values that have shaped the firm's internal dynamics and external reputation alike.
“I enjoy being around my colleagues,” he reflects. “Their work ethic and commitment to our clients that has been very rewarding to experience firsthand.”
Payne’s foresight has enabled the company to scale efficiently while managing tens of thousands of policyholders. The result is a highly nimble organization capable of responding swiftly to market changes, client needs, and emerging risks.
“Our team is made up of good people with hundreds of years of combined experience in this particular space, which has certainly helped our growth model overall,” he says. “Each of us realizes and appreciates the knowledge that surrounds us all.”
This depth of expertise, combined with long-standing relationships with carrier partners and underwriters built by Payne, has given Field Insurance a competitive edge.
Organic growth continues to be a hallmark of the agency’s trajectory, driven by client satisfaction and referrals. He says, “Each referral represents not just a new opportunity but also a validation of our commitment to service.”
Looking ahead, Payne sees continuity of the firm’s growth as the strategic path forward. While always open to new ideas and improvements, he remains grounded in the foundational principles that have fueled the company’s rise.
“I am confident that we can continue the trend. There are emerging markets, carriers that haven't been in the space that are starting to create products, which is ultimately going to present more opportunities,” he explains.
Ultimately, Payne’s vision is clear: build relationships, write profitable business, and deliver exceptional service in every interaction.
“I want us to be able to reach more consumers, assist more people, have great customer service, which will allow us to keep the same focus that we’ve had for so long, and continue our growth,” he adds. “I will always reach for more for myself and this organization.”
1300 Indian Wells Ct., Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
855 238 2411
bpayne@fieldinsuranceagency.com
linkedin.com/in/david-termechi-3b0821132
fieldinsuranceagency.com
Brian A. Payne
President
Field Insurance Agency
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Bio
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Bio
Milestones
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made”
Danny Ibrahim,
KeyRate Mortgage
2022–Present
2024
2014
2017
2020
President, Field Insurance Agency
Numerous awards and carrier boards
2022–Present
Top Retail Broker (previously Top Producer) award from Insurance Business America
2024
Earned a BS in Business Administration from CSU Northridge, balancing academics and work to build discipline and drive
2014
Became sales director, leading agent development while continuing to grow his own book of business
2017
Refocused on his personal book, growing a loyal client base through referrals, relationships, and service excellence
2020
Assistant Vice President and Senior Broker at MJ Hall & Company since 2018
Present
Milestones
Aug 2022
Milestones
Sept 2021
Feb 2022
Apr 2022
Jul 2022
Aug
2022
Suncorp Bank introduces Solar Home Bonus offer for customers who are choosing renewable energy for their homes
Sept 2021
Month-on-month market share growth commences
Feb 2022
Suncorp Bank wins the Canstar award for most outstanding value in investment loans
Apr 2022
Suncorp Bank wins Money Magazine’s Bank of the Year and Business Bank of the Year awards for the fifth year in a row
Jul 2022
Suncorp Bank’s turnaround times are the lowest they have ever been. The lender becomes Australia’s first certified carbon neutral bank for both its operation and transaction services
Aug 2022
Milestones
As a founding member of WOW! (Women. Opportunity. Winning.), an employee resource group created for all women of Ryan Specialty, Phillips Topping has long championed for women in the industry.
“It’s very important to set an example and to not only inspire but mentor other females,” she adds.
In addition to her sharp marketing eye, the key to Phillips Topping’s success lies in her high-energy approach and positive attitude.
“As the leader of a team, it’s important to motivate and encourage your team members. People work very hard and do their best and it’s important to recognize these efforts. For my career overall, my attitude has been one of curiosity. The more you can learn, the better you’ll understand the business, and then the deeper your knowledge will become, making you a better team member.”
Chief underwriting officer of executive risk at Chubb
President of financial insurance solutions at Kemper
Chief underwriting officer at Axis Capital
CEO of global Insurance at Endurance
CEO of global Insurance at Sompo International
A significant part of his focus today is staying ahead of regulatory change while maintaining a seamless client experience. He tracks updates from regulators and lenders closely and works with his teams to adjust systems as needed.
“My approach to my role and my career has always been rooted in passion, focus, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he says. “I’ve never been driven solely by profit or business metrics. I believe in hiring great talent, trusting them, and pushing boundaries because innovation doesn’t come from playing it safe.”
His experience isn’t limited to Canada. Ibrahim has worked in the US and UAE, which shaped his global perspective and comfort with adapting to different markets. He thrives on risk, viewing setbacks as stepping stones to progress.
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made,” he adds.
That outlook continues to guide his work and reflects his broader goal of helping move the industry forward. Through his brokerage, lending company, and legal services, Ibrahim is focused on creating long-term value for his clients, his teams, and others working in the field.