Terry Friedman

Terry Friedman spent more than 40 years with Friedman Insurance Group, later part of the LMC Group, where he helped build one of eastern Iowa’s respected independent agencies. He was involved in every facet of the agency and contributed to its growth in both revenue and reputation. From 2004 through 2020, Friedman served as President and CEO, guiding the agency with a strong focus on technical excellence, client service, and professional integrity.

Friedman earned a bachelor’s degree from Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa, and has held the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation since 1997. His Iowa insurance career has been defined by leadership, education, and service to the independent agency system. He served on the board of the Independent Insurance Agents of Iowa (IIAI) from 2006 to 2019 and was the organization’s president from 2017 to 2018.

His industry leadership also includes service as a committee member and past chair of the IIAI Technical and Industry Affairs Committee for the past 25 years and continues to serve on the committee.  He also participated as the Iowa representative with the Mid-American Insurance Conference, a national organization that makes recommendations to improve insurance policies, where he served on the board for 10 years, and as chair of the conference. Friedman also served on the State of Iowa Workers Compensation Appeal Board, where he contributed insurance expertise to issues affecting Iowa employers and workers.

He continues his industry service as a faculty member for the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (IIABA) “Ask an Expert” forum.

Throughout his career, Friedman has been and continues to be a resource for agents.  His approach emphasized not only technical knowledge, but also the importance of honesty, integrity, and sound judgment in the insurance profession. Many agents have benefited from his willingness to answer questions, share expertise, and help them see the value of a career in insurance.

Friedman’s commitment to service extended well beyond his agency and professional associations. He has been a board member and has held leadership roles with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque, Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, Friends of St. Mary’s/Steeple Square, Martita Theisen Childcare Center, Sisters of St. Francis Charitable Trust, Briar Cliff University, Divine Word College, and Stonehill Franciscan Services. In 2020, he and his wife, Paula, were recognized by the Dubuque Telegraph Herald as Dubuque’s First Citizens of the Year for their service to the community.

Friedman’s induction into the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame recognizes his Iowa roots, decades of leadership in the independent agency system, commitment to ethical practice, and lasting role as a mentor to insurance professionals across the state.