The conclusion of the transaction is set for the end of 2023, pending standard approvals and meeting other closing conditions. Kirkland & Ellis LLP has provided legal counsel to Bain Capital Insurance, while Foley & Lardner LLP acted as the legal advisor to GuideOne in this transaction.
Initiative aims to boost services to mutual insurance members
The initiative combines equity capital and outsourced operational capabilities to bolster the financial strength, flexibility, and operational efficiency of mutual insurance company members. The inception of The Mutual Group is made possible through Bain Capital Insurance’s acquisition of the operational platform of GuideOne Insurance Company, a distinguished niche-market mutual insurance carrier founded in 1947.
GuideOne will be the inaugural member of The Mutual Group, with Chuck Chamness, former CEO of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, appointed as the Chairman of the platform.
Tim Fleming, Senior Vice President of Core Commercial Lines at GuideOne, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer. The Mutual Group aims to offer a distinctive range of services, including underwriting, claims, reinsurance purchasing, and a robust technological suite encompassing policy administration, enterprise billing, and claims administration systems.
Anticipated to launch with approximately $800 million in annual premium serviced across 50,000 commercial policyholders, supported by over 400 employees, and headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, The Mutual Group represents a significant force in the insurance sector.
GuideOne, as The Mutual Group’s inaugural member, has received a $200 million investment. The funds will be used to enhance its balance sheet, enhance surplus positions, and foster continued growth in support of policyholders. This strategic move aligns with GuideOne’s objectives to bolster its long-term stability through improved operational efficiencies and underwriting performance.
The transaction, financed through the $1.17 billion Bain Capital Insurance Fund, LP—the inaugural dedicated insurance private equity fund—is slated to conclude by the end of 2023, subject to customary approvals and closing conditions.
Speaking about the investment move, Fleming said: “The Mutual Group is an exciting new platform that combines GuideOne’s nearly eight decades of experience as a niche mutual insurance carrier and its highly specialised team with the insurance investing acumen and strategic vision of Bain Capital Insurance.”
He added that the objective of safeguarding the autonomy and advantages of mutuality while establishing a contemporary and scalable operational platform to ensure long-term success.
The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2023, subject to customary approvals and other closing conditions.Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal advisor to Bain Capital Insurance on the transaction. Foley & Lardner LLP served as legal advisor to GuideOne on the transaction. paraphrase it
