Georgia Trend’s annual Georgia 500 honors the state’s most influential leaders driving business and community progress.

Georgia Trend’s Georgia 500 is one of the state’s most prestigious recognitions, spotlighting the most influential leaders shaping Georgia’s business, government, and nonprofit sectors. Each year, the publication curates this list to honor individuals whose vision, leadership, and impact drive progress across the state. Being featured in the Georgia 500 is not only a testament to professional excellence but also an acknowledgement of meaningful contributions to Georgia’s growth and success. We’re proud to share that our CEO, Jim Bailey, was included among this year’s honorees.

Learn more about Jim Bailey’s leadership and why he stands among Georgia’s most influential executives.

Business growth, cultural leadership, and a deep commitment to mentorship define Jim Bailey’s distinguished career. As president of Pritchard and Jerden, Bailey led the firm through 500% growth before guiding its 2021 merger into Sterling Seacrest Pritchard. Today, he is the CEO of one of the largest independent risk management and insurance brokerages in the U.S., where he focuses on the firm’s vision, strategy, revenue, and nurturing the next generation of leaders.

Bailey believes in continuous learning and views leadership as an evolving responsibility. “Leadership is about developing yourself and others,” says Bailey. He views culture as the foundation of long-term success, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, accountability, and what he calls an “apprentice-type” business model. “Your values really drive your behavior,” he says. “Behavior drives your culture, and your culture enhances your chances for success.”

Beyond the firm, Bailey is active on civic and industry boards. He cofounded the Georgia chapter of the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF), which has granted more than $1.5 million to local nonprofits. He was named its Insurance Person of the Year in 2022.

Originally Featured in Georgia Trend.