Newsroom For News Releases - Ameritas https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/news-releases/ Insurance | Employee Benefits | Financial Services Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:42:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.ameritas.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cropped-bison_white-icon_144x144-precomposed-32x32.png Newsroom For News Releases - Ameritas https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/news-releases/ 32 32 Ben Nordman given lifetime achievement award https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ben-nordman-given-lifetime-achievement-award/ Wed, 05 Nov 2025 13:39:52 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=54341
News Releases

Ben Nordman given lifetime achievement award

November 5, 2025 |read icon 4 min read
Ben Nordman, managing partner of NorthCentral DI

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Ben Nordman, managing partner of NorthCentral DI, is the recipient of the W. Harold Peterson Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor presented annually to a current International Disability Insurance Society (IDIS) member who has demonstrated dedication to the field of disability insurance.

The highest honor given by IDIS, the award was presented at the annual IDIS conference in October, where Nordman was recognized for his contributions, leadership and commitment. The award recognizes those who not only advance the profession but also inspire others through integrity and impact.

“An industry leader in DI for over 30 years, Ben has the utmost respect for integrity and shows true leadership on a daily basis,” said nominator Todd Shield, director of sales at NorthCentral DI.

The IDIS is dedicated to growing the disability insurance industry through education, awareness, promotion of high ethical conduct of the membership and increasing the knowledge base of the agent, producer, company and carriers. It has approximately 300 members in the United States.

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About Ben Nordman

Ben Nordman brings over 30 years of disability insurance sales and leadership experience, spanning both field and home office roles with disability carriers. Nordman is a managing partner of NorthCentral DI, an agency he built with his wife Belinda Nordman, since its inception to become a leader in the DI space.

About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Ameritas announces new officers – October 2025 https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-announces-new-officers-october-2025/ Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:01:24 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-announces-new-officers-october-2025/
News Releases

Ameritas announces new officers – October 2025

October 27, 2025 |read icon 4 min read

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Ameritas Chief Executive Officer Bob Jurgensmeier announces the following officer hires and promotions.

Scott Ballenger, second vice president, talent developmentScott Ballenger is now the second vice president, talent development. Ballenger was previously director, HR business partners. He has been with Ameritas since 2014 and holds an associates degree from Colby Community College.

Sherri Fowler, second vice president, cusotmer service, retirement plans Sherri Fowler is a new hire and is now the second vice president, customer service, retirement plans. Fowler has a four-year degree in accounting from Purdue University and holds a FINRA Series 6 license.
Bob Macdonald, vice president, strategic planning, executive Bob MacDonald is the new vice president, strategic planning, executive. MacDonald is a new hire, having previously been at Mutual of Omaha. He has an advanced degree from Doane College and a four-year degree from Thompson Rivers University. His professional certifications include applied statistics, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Prosci Change Management and IDEO Design Thinking.
Kyle O'Donnell, vice president, actuarial, individual Kyle O’Donnell is the new vice president, actuarial, individual. O’Donnell has a four-year degree in actuarial science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is a fellow of the Society of Actuaries. He is also a member of the American Academy of Actuaries and the Nebraska Actuaries Club, an organization he was president of in 2023 and a board chair from 2024-25.

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About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> NAIFA-Iowa honors Merle Miller with annual prestigious award https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/naifa-iowa-honors-merle-miller-with-annual-prestigious-award/ Wed, 08 Oct 2025 14:19:11 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=53886
News Releases

NAIFA-Iowa honors Merle Miller with annual prestigious award

October 8, 2025 |read icon 5 min read
Merle Miller of Midwest Financial Solutions is the recipient of the Newell C. Day Agent of the Year award

LINCOLN, Nebraska– Merle Miller of Midwest Financial Solutions and the Ameritas Field Advisory Cabinet is the recipient of the Newell C. Day Agent of the Year award, an annual award presented to the individual found to be the most outstanding member in the state of Iowa.

This is the most prestigious recognition a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors-Iowa can receive. This recognition is bestowed by his or her professional peers and is named after one of NAIFA-Iowa’s most outstanding state association presidents, the late Newell C. Day, who served as president from 1947-1948. This award is based on nominations received from fellow NAIFA-Iowa members recognizing one of their own.

Miller received the recognition at the 2025 NAIFA-Iowa annual convention in Cedar Rapids in late August.

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About Merle D Miller, RFC
Owner/General Agent – Midwest Financial Solutions, LLC

Merle D. Miller began his career in financial services in 1987 with Equitable Life of Iowa. In 1989, he co-founded Hawkeye Brokerage Center, later acquiring full ownership and serving as its general agent. In 2001, he launched Midwest Financial Solutions, LLC, a brokerage outlet that supports financial advisors within his agency. Miller holds the professional designation of Registered Financial Consultant (RFC), awarded by the International Association of Registered Financial Consultants.

He is deeply committed to both his profession and his community. Miller is actively involved with his local church and a variety of nonprofit organizations. He is a past president and current member of the Iowa City/Cedar Rapids NAIFA chapter and is also involved with the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club. He is a qualifying and life member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) and consistently qualifies for Top of the Table, the organization’s highest level of recognition.

Additionally, Miller serves on the Ameritas Field Advisory Cabinet. Outside of his professional work, Miller is passionate about helping young athletes pursue scholarship opportunities, and he finds great joy in mentoring and supporting their journeys. Family is incredibly important to him, and he treasures time spent with his children and grandchildren. He also enjoys coaching softball, golfing, and sharing life with his special friend, Kim.

About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Ameritas announces new national sales director of retirement plans https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-announces-new-national-sales-director-of-retirement-plans/ Tue, 29 Jul 2025 12:26:10 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=53268
News Releases

Ameritas announces new national sales director of retirement plans

July 29, 2025 |read icon 4 min read
David Schlageter, National Sales Director of Ameritas Retirement Plans

LINCOLN, Nebraska – David Schlageter has been named the new national sales director of Ameritas retirement plans, the company announced today.

Schlageter is a 35-year industry veteran and brings a wealth of investment, consulting and distribution experience with him to Ameritas.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Dave to the Ameritas sales management team as our new national sales director for retirement plans. With his experience in the industry and a proven track record as a top-performing wholesaler, Dave brings a great knowledge, leadership and respect to the role,” said Scott Holechek, vice president, sales, distribution and relationship management, retirement plans. “His deep understanding of the business and commitment to coaching and development will empower our regional sales vice presidents to exceed expectations and deliver value to financial advisors, employers and employees across the country.”

Schlageter specializes in distribution alliances, plan design, TPA and advisor education and has conducted seminars on retirement plan administration and operation, marketing advisor support and industry trends. He holds a Georgia insurance license and FINRA Series 6 and 63 registrations.

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About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Ameritas announces newly elected officers – June 2025 https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-announces-newly-elected-officers-june-2025/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 14:27:19 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=52702
News Releases

Ameritas announces newly elected officers – June 2025

June 9, 2025 |read icon 4 min read

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Ameritas Chief Executive Officer Bob Jurgensmeier announces the following officer elections, all with an effective date of June 1, 2025.

Karen Noble-Patrick

Karen Noble-Patrick is the new vice president, service, ABRS service and operation. With 25 years of experience in the retirement services industry, Noble-Patrick began her career as a plan administrator for USFilter. Over the next 23 years at OneAmerica, she held various leadership roles in client administration, operations and strategy. Most recently, Noble-Patrick served as assistant vice president of retirement operations for Voya. She holds a Master of Business Administration from Anderson University and possesses both Greenbelt certification and FSRI credentials.

Roger Ruz

Roger Ruz is the new vice president, sales supervision, Ameritas Investment Company, LLC and Ameritas Advisory Services, LLC. Ruz was most recently with Huntington National Bank, where he was a senior vice president, director of brokerage supervision. He holds a four-year degree in finance from Franklin University and a Master of Business Administration from Capital University. Ruz also holds FINRA Series 7, 24, 53, 63, 65 and 4 licenses.

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About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Ameritas names Anthony DiPaola to Hall of Fame https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-names-anthony-dipaola-to-hall-of-fame/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 14:11:13 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=52668
News Releases

Ameritas names Anthony DiPaola to Hall of Fame

June 5, 2025 |read icon 5 min read
Anthony DiPaola, CEO DiPaola Financial Group

Anthony C. DiPaola of DiPaola Financial Group is the newest member of the Ameritas Hall of Fame. DiPaola will enter the Hall of Fame as a 2025 inductee.

The prestigious Hall of Fame award is the highest honor an Ameritas field partner can achieve. The award recognizes people who, over the course of their careers, exhibited outstanding leadership qualities, a commitment to bettering their community, and significant professional contributions to both the insurance industry and to Ameritas.

“Being inducted into the Ameritas Hall of Fame is an incredible honor and a testament to the dedication of our entire team,” said Anthony DiPaola, CEO of DiPaola Financial Group. “This recognition inspires me to continue mentoring others and delivering the highest level of service to our clients and communities.”

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About Anthony C. DiPaola

Anthony DiPaola is the CEO of DiPaola Financial Group, a New York-based firm offering comprehensive financial services. His career began at Mutual of Omaha, after which he joined Union Central in 2007. Over the next decade, he expanded his reach by opening multiple satellite offices in the New York/New Jersey area and co-founding the National Wealth Group. This collaboration extended the firm’s presence to Florida and Texas. As CEO, DiPaola is deeply involved in strategic operations, staff development, and client advisory, ensuring that each office operates efficiently and aligns with the company’s high standards. He is also a committed mentor and an active member of professional organizations like the Round Table of New York and GAMA.

DiPaola’s professional achievements are numerous, including multiple Inner Circle qualifications and leadership roles on several Ameritas sub-committees. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, he is passionate about community service, supporting organizations such as Breakthrough T1D, the American Cancer Society, and the Jimmy V Foundation. A graduate of St. Joseph’s College with a Master of Business Administration in finance, Anthony remains engaged with his alma mater. He lives on Long Island with his wife Jeanette and their two children, one of whom has joined the family business.

For additional information about this award, visit the Ameritas Ratings and Awards page.

About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Ameritas names Schommer new senior vice president, risk and compliance https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-names-schommer-new-senior-vice-president-risk-and-compliance/ Wed, 02 Apr 2025 13:52:27 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=52130
News Releases

Ameritas names Schommer new senior vice president, risk and compliance

April 2, 2025 |read icon 4 min read
Craig Schommer, Senior Vice President - Risk and Compliance

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Craig Schommer has become the new senior vice president, risk and compliance, at Ameritas, effective March 30, 2025.

“The experience and leadership Craig brings to his new role will undoubtedly strengthen Ameritas,” said Sue Wilkinson, president at Ameritas. “His approach to risk management will help ensure we are prepared for future challenges and set us up for long-term success and stability.”

Schommer joined Ameritas in 2017 as a second vice president, product management, before becoming the vice president of life product development in 2019. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Schommer earned the professional designation of Fellow of the Society of Actuaries in 2010 and has worked in the insurance industry for over 15 years. Schommer is a member of the Society of Actuaries and American Academy of Actuaries. He is also a member and past president of the Nebraska Actuaries Club.

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About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Annual Ameritas members meeting to be held May 6 https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/annual-ameritas-members-meeting-to-be-held-may-6/ Thu, 13 Mar 2025 17:03:31 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=51851
News Releases

Annual Ameritas members meeting to be held May 6

March 13, 2025 |read icon 3 min read
Board members sitting around a table in a meeting room.

LINCOLN, Nebraska – The annual meeting of the members of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company will be held on Tuesday, May 6, at 9 a.m. in the Ameritas home office, 5900 O St., Lincoln, Nebraska.

In addition to receiving a report from Ameritas CEO Bob Jurgensmeier, the purpose of the annual meeting is to elect five nominees as directors for a three-year term. Voters were encouraged to cast their votes online, by phone or in person.

Ameritas MHC is the parent company, which owns Ameritas Holding Company. Ameritas Holding Company owns Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. (Ameritas Life). Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (Ameritas Life of NY) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ameritas Life. Members of Ameritas MHC are eligible policyholders of these two life insurance companies.

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About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Ameritas Investment Company celebrates 40 years https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-investment-company-celebrates-40-years/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 21:25:03 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-investment-company-celebrates-40-years/
News Releases

Ameritas Investment Company celebrates 40 years

March 5, 2025 |read icon 4 min read
AIC building image

LINCOLN, Neb. – Ameritas Investment Company, LLC (AIC) is celebrating its 40th anniversary. The milestone is marked by the company’s longtime commitment to being an independent advisory and brokerage firm supporting holistic wealth management professionals and their clients.

Based in Lincoln, Nebraska, AIC and affiliate Ameritas Advisory Services, LLC (AAS) deliver flexibility and choice for financial professionals through an array of wealth management platforms, investment products and support services aimed at helping clients reach their financial goals.

“AIC is a great place to be, in part, to our culture. Our growth throughout the years has allowed us to continue to strengthen our presence in the industry and offer more to our affiliated financial professionals. Being a part of a firm that has established themselves and strives to be a company with whom it is easy to do business is something we are proud of. I am excited about the future of AIC and continuing to enhance how we support our financial professionals,” said Jeremy Robson, AIC and AAS president.

AIC opened its doors as a broker/dealer under the name BLN Investment Corp. upon registration with the NASD (now FINRA) in 1984. Since that time, many changes have occurred to make this company what it is today, including its first name change in 1987 and its second in 2020. In 2021, AAS was formed as a separate investment adviser focusing on fee-based advisory business.

“As we celebrate this 40-year milestone, I’m reminded of the dedication of our associates and I’m grateful for the trust that financial professionals have in us.  The journey is a testament to the ability to continuously evolve to meet changing needs,” said Bob Jurgensmeier, Ameritas CEO.

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About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

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]]> Ameritas celebrates 18th Center of Excellence Certification https://www.ameritas.com/newsroom/ameritas-celebrates-18th-center-of-excellence-certification/ Tue, 18 Feb 2025 13:12:15 +0000 https://www.ameritas.com/?post_type=newsroom&p=51547
News Releases

Ameritas celebrates 18th Center of Excellence Certification

February 18, 2025 |read icon 5 min read

BenchmarkPortal Center of Excellence certification
LINCOLN, Nebraska – The group division of Ameritas proudly marks a milestone as it receives the BenchmarkPortal Center of Excellence Certification for the 18th consecutive year. This certification reaffirms leadership and dedication to customer service and support and celebrates nearly two decades of continuous advancement and commitment to excellence. The recognition for 2024 highlights Ameritas’ ongoing commitment to uphold and surpass industry standards.

The BenchmarkPortal Center of Excellence Certification is widely regarded as one of the premier honors in customer service and support. Maintaining this level of distinction requires that contact centers meet and adhere to stringent standards consistently, year after year — an achievement that defines industry excellence. This year, Ameritas celebrates the historical achievement and look forward to building upon innovative strategies that will determine and enhance the future of customer service. As one of the few organizations to secure this accolade for 18 consecutive years, Ameritas remains in the top 10 percent of insurance industry contact centers across North America.

Kelly Wieseler, executive vice president, group division said, “I want to congratulate our call center associates who work hard to provide best-in-class service to our customers. Our service allows us to retain more customers year over year, which fuels our growth and our mission to fulfill more lives. This annual certification is the gold standard in customer experience initiatives, and our 18th Center of Excellence award highlights our exceptional commitment. We are honored to have once again earned this recognition.”

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About Ameritas

Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.

About BenchmarkPortal

Since its origins in 1995, BenchmarkPortal has become a global leader in the contact center industry, providing benchmarking, certification, training, consulting, and industry reports. The BenchmarkPortal team of professionals has gained international recognition for its innovative approach to best practices for the contact center industry. BenchmarkPortal hosts the world’s largest contact center metrics database, which is constantly being refreshed with new data. BenchmarkPortal’s mission is to provide contact center managers with the tools and information that will help them optimize their efficiency and effectiveness in their customer communications. For more information, visit BenchmarkPortal.

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