A Legacy Worth Protecting: Introducing the Oswald Companies History Video Series. Did you know only five, yes FIVE, CEOs have led Oswald Companies through its 132 years in business? This loyalty, consistency, and commitment empowered the delivery of a higher standard of client service – across generations – while creating a lasting legacy to live on. While this series is shared from the perspectives of these leaders, we also acknowledge all employee-owners who have called Oswald home. Whether it’s been the role of your lifetime, or a bridge on your path, you made a meaningful difference and are part of our celebrated history.
Founded in 1893, Oswald Companies has grown from a Cleveland-based agency into a nationally recognized leader in risk management and insurance brokerage services. Over the decades, our leadership has guided us through transformation and growth, with five CEOs shaping our path: James B. Oswald, Bob Oswald, Jim Pender, Marc Byrnes, and our current Chairman and CEO, Robert J. Klonk.
“A Legacy Worth Protecting” is our three-part history video series—honoring our roots, celebrating our growth, and unveiling the next chapters of our story. Through this series, we reflect on the people, values and pivotal moments, told by those who’ve brought the vision to life.
Honoring the past, building the future.
Explore our legacy, watch the full video series:
- Part I: The Origin of Oswald Companies
- Part II: Rising Tides
- Part III: The Next Chapter at Oswald Tower
The Oswald Legacy Begins: From James B. Oswald to Jim Pender
Our series begins with remarks from Jim Pender, former CEO of Oswald Companies and grandson of our founder, James B. Oswald and nephew of CEO Bob Oswald. As a third-generation leader, Jim played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s culture and future. In 1985, he made the transformative decision to establish Oswald’s employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), transferring a portion of his holdings into a trust for the benefit of all employees. This move not only empowered our people but laid the foundation for a culture of shared success that continues today. Jim’s vision and leadership mark a defining moment in our history—and the beginning of A Legacy Worth Protecting.
Jim Pender, Former CEO, Oswald Companies
As Oswald Companies approached its 100th anniversary in the early 1990s the stage became set for a new era of growth, innovation and cultural transformation. The next chapter in our story begins with Marc Byrnes, a leader whose vision and values propelled Oswald into the modern age while staying true to our mission of caring for clients, employees, and community.
Building on the Legacy: Featuring Marc Byrnes
Named CEO in 1996, Marc introduced a strategic plan rooted in a mission of “caring” and guided by core values—Passion for Excellence, Integrity, Resourcefulness, and Commitment to Community (PIRC). Under his leadership, Oswald expanded into specialized industry segments, strengthened its employee ownership model, and navigated pivotal moments with clarity and conviction. Marc’s tenure was defined by growth, governance and a deep belief in empowering and supporting the communities Oswald serves. His legacy continues to shape the culture and direction of Oswald Companies today.
Marc Byrnes, Former CEO, Oswald Companies
The next chapter in our story brings us to the next level of transformation, led by Robert Klonk, whose vision and leadership have propelled Oswald into a future defined by collaboration, purpose, and a bold, expansive horizon.
A Future, In Unison: Featuring Robert Klonk
In 2013, Robert Klonk succeeded Marc Byrnes as CEO, bringing a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to Oswald’s next phase of growth. Under his leadership, Oswald deepened its commitment to employee ownership, expanded its national footprint, and embraced strategic partnerships that would shape the future of the firm. In 2020, Robert co-founded Unison Risk Advisors (URA), merging Oswald Companies with RCM&D to form a powerful alliance of independent firms. By 2021, Robert had also taken on the role of Board Chairman, guiding the organization through a period of transformation and opportunity. In 2024, Oswald Companies moved into Oswald Tower in Cleveland’s Flats—a bold symbol of our continued investment in our people, our city and our legacy. Robert’s leadership reflects the spirit of innovation and unity that defines Oswald today and sets the stage for what comes next.
Robert Klonk, Chairman and CEO, Oswald Companies and Unison Risk Advisors
Protecting the Legacy, Building the Future
A Legacy Worth Protecting is more than a history series—it’s a reflection of the values, vision, and leadership that have shaped Oswald Companies since 1893. From the founding spirit of James B. Oswald, to the transformative leadership of Jim Pender, Marc Byrnes, and Robert Klonk, each chapter in our journey has been guided by a deep commitment to our people, our clients and our community. Today, as we step into Oswald Tower and move forward as part of Unison Risk Advisors, we remain rooted in our legacy and energized for the future.
Thank you for being part of our story—we invite you to stay connected, explore our impact, and grow with us as we write the next chapter, together.
