Kistler Tiffany Benefits General Agency - Comprehensive Analysis Report
Summary
Kistler Tiffany Benefits, established in 1973, is a leading independent General Agency specializing in employee benefits. The company's core mission is to empower independent employee benefits brokers by providing comprehensive benefits consulting, market guidance, customer service support, and access to a wide array of carriers. It plays a significant role in the employee benefits consulting and general agency landscape across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, aiming to help broker partners grow and maintain their businesses through a team of knowledgeable professionals, robust compliance resources, tailored solutions, and advanced benefits technology. The company was acquired by OneDigital in January 2020, becoming part of a larger strategic advisory firm.
1. Strategic Focus & Objectives
Core Objectives
Kistler Tiffany Benefits focuses on supporting independent employee benefits brokers. Its main business objectives include providing superior service and support products at competitive rates, ensuring broker partners maintain a competitive edge. The company aims to assist brokers with client growth and retention in a dynamic market through a broker-centric approach.
Specialization Areas
The company's key areas of expertise include comprehensive offerings such as group medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, group life, short-term and long-term disability, individual and short-term medical coverage, and voluntary benefits. They also offer crucial HR support, ERISA compliance assistance, and benefits administration alongside consolidated billing through integrated technological ecosystems.
Target Markets
Kistler Tiffany Benefits primarily targets small, mid, and large group segments within Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey.
2. Financial Overview
Funding History
Kistler Tiffany Benefits was acquired by OneDigital, a strategic advisory firm, in January 2020. This acquisition was a significant expansion for OneDigital, extending its presence in the Northeast and the greater Philadelphia market. As an acquired entity, Kistler Tiffany Benefits is now private equity-backed through OneDigital. Prior to the acquisition, its revenues were estimated to be between $10 million and $50 million. In August 2020, Kistler Tiffany Benefits, as a OneDigital company, further expanded its offerings by acquiring Advanced Benefits Concepts (ABC), a New Jersey-based firm specializing in ancillary benefits, to formalize a dedicated ancillary resource. Kistler Tiffany Benefits has not raised any separate funding rounds as an independent entity since its acquisition.
3. Product Pipeline
Key Products/Services
Group Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage: Comprehensive health benefit plans for employee groups. These are fully developed offerings central to their broker support.
Group Life, Short-term and Long-term Disability: Essential income protection and life insurance products for employee groups. These are mature offerings.
Individual and Short-term Medical Coverage: Options for individuals and those needing temporary coverage. These are established services.
Voluntary Benefits: A range of optional benefits employees can choose, enhancing overall benefit packages. These are fully integrated into their offerings.
HR Support: Services designed to assist brokers and their clients with human resources needs. These are fully operational services.
ERISA Compliance Assistance: Expert guidance and resources to ensure compliance with ERISA regulations. These are continuously updated and crucial services, supported by partners like O.C.A. Benefit Services.
Benefits Administration & Consolidated Billing: Streamlined processes and technology for managing benefits and billing through platforms like the Beneration ecosystem. These are mature and technologically supported services.
Ancillary Benefits: Specialized offerings through the acquisition of Advanced Benefits Concepts, formalizing a dedicated resource within Kistler Tiffany Benefits. These services are being integrated and scaled within the company.
4. Technology & Innovation
Technology Stack
Kistler Tiffany Benefits utilizes a modern technology stack to bolster its digital presence and enhance operational efficiencies. Key technologies include:
Web Analytics: Google Analytics for tracking and analyzing website traffic and user behavior.
Content Management & Development: Slider Revolution, PHP.
Front-end Frameworks & Libraries: Font Awesome, Skrollr, parallax.js, Select2, jQuery Mobile, jQuery Waypoints, indicating a focus on dynamic and responsive web design.
Form Management: Contact Form 7.
Server Technology: LiteSpeed for optimized web server performance.
These technologies support the company's commitment to providing advanced benefits technology platforms, compliance resources, and tailored solutions to enhance broker and client experiences. The focus is on improving benefits administration and compliance management through technological innovation.
5. Leadership & Management
Executive Team
William O. Daggett, Jr. (Founder, Chairman): Founded Kistler Tiffany Benefits in 1973 and served as CEO until 2016, transitioning to Chairman.
Shawn N. Orenstein (CEO): Became CEO in 2016 after serving as President since 2005. He continues to lead the company post-acquisition by OneDigital.
Joseph Dowd (Senior Managing Principal): Appointed President in 2016 and is instrumental in the company's strategic initiatives.
S. W. (Director of Compliance and Innovation / Director of Compliance Services): Leads the dedicated team focused on compliance with PPACA, ERISA, HIPAA, and COBRA.
S. S. (Director, Broker Experience at Kistler Tiffany Benefits (a One Digital Company)): Focuses on enhancing the broker experience.
D. H. (Director, KTB Consulting): Oversees consulting services.
Sean Riley (Managing Director):
D. L. (Director of Operations): Manages operational aspects.
R. S. (Managing Director - Consulting Services):
Tom Shank (General Agency Ancillary Manager & Principal): Joined following the acquisition of Advanced Benefits Concepts.
Brad Daggett (Principal):
Brian E. Daggett (Principal, CFO):
Chris Collins (Principal / Employee Benefits Consultant):
Kevin P. Conners (Principal):
Stewart T. Anmuth (Principal):
T. Ryan Schaible (Principal):
Recent Leadership Changes
In January 2020, Kistler Tiffany Benefits joined OneDigital. The company has largely maintained its leadership structure while integrating into OneDigital's broader operations. Prior to this, in 2016, founder William O. Daggett, Jr. transitioned his CEO role to Shawn N. Orenstein. Joseph Dowd was appointed President, and Mr. Daggett assumed the position of Chairman. In September 2020, Tom Shank, former President and Owner of Advanced Benefits Concepts, joined the leadership team following the acquisition of his firm.
6. Talent and Growth Indicators
Hiring Trends and Workforce
As of October 2025, Kistler Tiffany Benefits General Agency employs approximately 93 individuals across North America and Europe. The company emphasizes a workforce of highly specialized and trained professionals, reflecting its focus on expertise within the employee benefits consulting field.
Company Growth Trajectory Indicators
The acquisition by OneDigital in January 2020 and the subsequent acquisition of Advanced Benefits Concepts (ABC) in August 2020 point to a clear growth trajectory. These strategic moves have expanded Kistler Tiffany Benefits' capabilities, market reach, and service offerings, particularly in ancillary benefits. The continuing integration into OneDigital's extensive network further signifies planned expansion and increased market penetration.
7. Social Media Presence and Engagement
Digital Footprint
Kistler Tiffany Benefits maintains a professional social media presence, primarily leveraging LinkedIn for industry engagement, networking, and thought leadership. Their official website actively features a "News & Updates" section.
Brand Messaging and Positioning
The company consistently shares valuable insights on industry developments, regulatory changes, and upcoming events through its digital platforms. Recent posts from June 2025 covered critical topics such as 5500 filing deadlines, New Jersey Pay Transparency Law, and exploring self-funded health plan options, demonstrating a commitment to informing and guiding their broker partners.
Community Engagement Strategies
Kistler Tiffany Benefits utilizes its social media and website to provide timely information, including updates on carrier news and compliance details. LinkedIn serves as a key platform for fostering connections and sharing expertise within the employee benefits industry.
8. Recognition and Awards
Industry Recognition
In December 2014, Kistler Tiffany Benefits was recognized as one of the nation's top employee benefit firms by Employee Benefit Adviser. The company secured the 45th position on this list and was the sole firm headquartered in Pennsylvania to be included. This ranking was based on health and welfare revenue derived from Form 5500 reporting data.
9. Competitive Analysis
Major Competitors
Kistler Tiffany Benefits operates in a competitive landscape within the employee benefits consulting and general agency sectors.
USI: A large, comprehensive insurance brokerage and consulting firm offering a wide range of services.
HUB International: Another significant global insurance brokerage providing property and casualty, life and health, employee benefits, investment, and risk management products and services.
Centivo: Focuses on simplifying healthcare for employers, often directly engaging with providers.
Access Healthcare: A global provider of healthcare revenue cycle management and IT services.
Rennova Health: A diagnostics company, operating in a related but distinct healthcare segment.
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.: A global insurance brokerage and risk management services firm.
CBIZ Benefits & Insurance Services Inc.: Provides employee benefits consulting, actuarial services, and property and casualty insurance.
BDO USA LLP: Offers tax, assurance, and advisory services, including employee benefits consulting.
Creative Benefits Inc.: An independent employee benefits consulting firm.
Kistler Tiffany Benefits distinguishes itself by offering personalized, knowledgeable service, aiming to provide a competitive edge through a broker-centric model against larger, more generalist entities.
10. Market Analysis
Market Overview
The employee benefits market is characterized by its dynamic nature, heavily influenced by evolving healthcare legislation and a tight labor market. Employers consistently seek contemporary and attractive solutions to attract and retain talent, leading to increased demand for robust and expanded benefits packages beyond traditional medical, dental, and vision offerings.
Growth Potential
The market shows significant growth potential as companies continue to prioritize comprehensive employee welfare. The demand for specialized advice on compliance with complex regulations, such as PPACA, ERISA, HIPAA, and COBRA, further drives the need for expert consulting services.
Key Market Trends
Evolving Healthcare Legislation: Continuous changes in laws require constant adaptation and expert guidance.
Demand for Comprehensive Benefits: Employers are expanding benefits beyond traditional offerings to include voluntary benefits, wellness programs, and more.
Technology Integration: Increased adoption of advanced benefits technology platforms for administration, compliance, and client experience enhancement.
Personalization: Growing need for tailored benefits solutions that address diverse employee needs and employer objectives.
Market Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges: Navigating complex and frequently changing regulatory landscapes, managing rising healthcare costs, and competition from larger, diversified firms.
Opportunities: Leveraging expertise in compliance to become a trusted advisor, expanding technology-driven solutions for efficiency and enhanced client experience, and capitalizing on the demand for specialized ancillary benefits. Kistler Tiffany Benefits, operating within the mid-market segment, benefits from the need for personalized service combined with scalable operations.
11. Strategic Partnerships
OneDigital: Since January 2020, this partnership has been fundamental, expanding Kistler Tiffany Benefits' product offerings and technological capabilities. It provides access to OneDigital's extensive resources in benefits, HR, and technology solutions across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey.
O.C.A. Benefit Services: Collaboration for ERISA compliance assistance, providing specialized expertise in regulatory adherence.
Alston and Bird, LLC: A strategic partner, likely offering legal or specialized consulting services.
Industry Associations: Active involvement with organizations such as the National Association of Healthcare Underwriters (NAHU), Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters (PAHU), and New Jersey Association of Health Underwriters (NJAHU), with leadership holding roles in these groups. These affiliations facilitate networking, knowledge sharing, and staying abreast of industry trends.
12. Operational Insights
Kistler Tiffany Benefits operates with a distinct broker-centric approach, which forms the bedrock of its operational strategy.
Competitive Advantages: The company differentiates itself through a dedicated team providing compliance, customer service, communications, HR, a full-service ancillary team, and commissions support. Its deep expertise in navigating complex healthcare legislation and commitment to compliance, led by its Director of Compliance Services, is a significant competitive edge.
Current Market Position: Through its integration with OneDigital, Kistler Tiffany Benefits has solidified its market reach in the tri-state area, expanding its product offerings and technological capabilities.
Operational Strengths: Strong relationships with major insurance carriers which are crucial for rapid issue resolution and customized solutions. The provision of educational resources, events, and webinars further strengthens its operational support for broker partners.
Areas for Improvement: Continuous adaptation to technological advancements and evolving legislative landscapes demands ongoing investment in resources and talent development.
13. Future Outlook
Strategic Roadmap
Kistler Tiffany Benefits aims to continue expanding its services and value proposition within the employee benefits sector, significantly leveraging its integration with OneDigital. The strategic roadmap includes:
Enhanced Technology and Analytics: Further integration and offering of advanced benefits technology platforms and analytics tools to improve broker and client experiences.
Digital Marketing Services: Expanding digital marketing support to broker partners to aid their client attraction and retention efforts.
Ancillary Resource Scaling: Building upon the acquisition of Advanced Benefits Concepts to formalize and scale ancillary resources, creating new service deliverables for broker partners.
Continuous Education: Ongoing commitment to educating broker partners through industry events, webinars, and updates on regulatory developments to foster their success and maintain compliance.
Growth Strategies
The company plans to capitalize on its niche in personalized service combined with the expanded resources of OneDigital. This includes exploring opportunities for expanding niche insurance products and scalable technology platforms to generate additional revenue streams.
Future Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
Navigating the complexities of an ever-changing regulatory environment remains a challenge. Kistler Tiffany Benefits mitigates this through its dedicated compliance team and continuous education initiatives. Competition from larger firms is addressed by emphasizing personalized service, deep expertise, and leveraging the broader capabilities gained through the OneDigital partnership. Ensuring seamless integration of new technologies and services while maintaining a high level of broker support will be crucial for sustained growth.
