Michael Freisenbruch had the good fortune to venture out on his own when he took a leap of faith in 1980, borrowing $12,000 from the bank to launch a brand-new firm of local insurance intermediaries in conjunction with Meyer Agencies Ltd.
What began as one man, working long hours out of a small office in the Vasco da Gama Building, has grown into one of Bermuda’s most respected insurance providers. Today, Freisenbruch is celebrating 45 years on the front lines of local insurance, a testament to its unwavering commitment to service, innovation, and community. In recognition of this milestone, he wished to provide credit to his mentor, Simon Everett, Henry Hayward (the then President of Meyer Agencies Ltd.), and the late Terrance (Terry) Orchard, Michael’s colleague.
From those early days of pounding the pavement to win clients with personalized service, Freisenbruch has evolved into a powerhouse of protection, offering an extensive array of products, including home, motor, marine, and life insurance, alongside comprehensive commercial lines like property & casualty, commercial vehicle, marine & cargo, and key person insurance.
Through its insurance brokerage division, Freisenbruch also provides specialized coverages, including property, cyber, directors & officers, professional indemnity, and medical malpractice. Freisenbruch’s pensions department provides flexible investment options for employers and individuals, giving clients the freedom to build their financial future with confidence.
Freisenbruch has been there for Bermuda residents through life’s ups and downs. And for Michael Freisenbruch, that’s what matters most.
“Looking back, what I’m most proud of is the claims we’ve settled,” he reflects. “That’s when your product delivers on its promise—when they needed us, we were there.”
But it hasn’t just been about business. It’s been about building relationships, fostering a collegiate workplace culture, and yes, even having some fun along the way.
Michael Freisenbruch’s journey began in the 1970s when he first cut his teeth in insurance at Harnett & Richardson Ltd. (H&R). But the real turning point came in 1980 when he was provided with an opportunity in Bermuda’s newly evolving insurance landscape. He approached Henry Hayward with a bold idea—to start a new insurance venture.
One year and several trips to London later, Freisenbruch-Meyer Insurance Services Ltd. (FMIS) was born, securing its first major partnership as the official representative of Royal Insurance (UK) Ltd. in Bermuda.
Those early days were filled with grit and determination. As the company’s only employee, Michael spent countless hours winning clients with his personal, hands-on approach. Weekends at the office were the norm. In the early years, he recalls standing on the balcony of the Penboss Building, watching others enjoy their Saturday nights out, while he worked tirelessly to build the company.
“That’s what it took to get the business going—there was a lot of hard graft,” he says. And a lot of support and faith put his way by family and friends.
And the hard work paid off. In 1997, FMIS amalgamated with Harnett & Richardson to form the Freisenbruch-Meyer Group (FMG), marking a major milestone in the company’s expansion. Over the years, the company expanded by assimilating smaller local agencies who represented foreign insurers. The natural next step, Mr. Freisenbruch recalls, was for the firm to create its own insurance company.
This happened in 2002, when FMG entered into a partnership with ACE Bermuda, now known as Chubb, to create Freisenbruch-Meyer Insurance Ltd., today known as Freisenbruch Insurance Ltd. (FIL). ACE took a minority stake and served as principal reinsurer.
“They have been wonderful partners,” Mr. Freisenbruch says. “They are one of the world’s largest insurance companies and one of the most respected. As a company with high ratings, Chubb has provided valuable reinsurance support.” Chubb’s subsidiaries have a financial strength rating of A++ from AM Best.
The partnership remains strong as Chubb continues to hold equity in FIL as well as providing strong leadership on the company’s board of directors.
Freisenbruch’s commitment to people-first service and workplace excellence was recognized when the company was named one of The Bottom Line Magazine’s Top 10 Employers for three consecutive years (2009, 2010, and 2011). And even in tough economic times, Freisenbruch continued to invest in the future, renovating its Front Street headquarters in 2012 to create a welcoming and harmonious client space, while projecting a bold ‘avant garde’ but professional image!
A Legacy Built on Trust and Service
In 2022, the organization underwent a rebranding, shortening its name to simply Freisenbruch. This change marked a new chapter for the company, but its commitment to providing exceptional service and building lasting trust with clients remained unchanged. Freisenbruch continued to deliver the same high-quality insurance solutions that clients have come to rely on. With Patrick Neal assuming the role of CEO in 2023, the company is poised for continued growth and success, building on a legacy founded on trust and exceptional service.
Looking ahead, Michael Freisenbruch is confident that the company will continue to thrive, even as the industry evolves.
“Being in business is a privilege, not a right,” Mr. Freisenbruch often says. “We understand that, and our customer service is a genuine priority for us. I appreciate our clients, believe in our staff and what we do. I have the utmost confidence in our Management Team and Patrick and I know that the company is well-equipped with the tools, talent, and determination needed to drive sustainable growth and innovation.
Mr. Freisenbruch continues: “With a shared commitment to excellence and a clear vision for the road ahead, we are poised to build upon our past achievements and embrace new opportunities, ensuring that success remains a defining characteristic of our company for many years to come.”
From an ambitious idea in 1980 to a lasting legacy in 2025, Freisenbruch has remained strong, demonstrating that a foundation of trust, service, and perseverance paves the way for enduring success.
Here’s to the next 45 years!
