Our Representatives

Michael Chernoff

With over 50 years of experience in the insurance industry, Michael Chernoff is a seasoned professional based in Tampa, FL. He founded Insurance and Trust, a second-generation family-owned agency, with a vision to provide innovative risk management solutions combined with world-class client service. Michael specializes in offering comprehensive insurance coverage for high-net-worth individuals, including home, automobile, yachts, jets, and valuable collections, ensuring their assets and lifestyle are well-protected. Michael’s expertise extends to creating tailored solutions for complex insurance needs, including multi-property portfolios and high-value assets. Through his extensive relationships with progressive national insurance carriers, Michael’s team ensures that clients receive the most comprehensive coverage available, often consolidating multiple policies into a single, streamlined plan. Focused on building lasting relationships and delivering personalized service, Michael is dedicated to mentoring his team and providing thoughtful risk management strategies that address both present and future needs. Through Insurance and Trust, he continues to protect the hard-earned wealth of his clients with innovative solutions and unwavering commitment.

Jeff Chernoff

Jeff is a Tampa native, insurance advisor, and president of his family business. He focuses on providing life, disability income and long-term care insurance policies for individuals and families. Prior to his role at Insurance and Trust, Jeff worked in higher education at the University of North Dakota, Ferris State University and Virginia Tech. He graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science, and received his Master’s Degree from the University of North Dakota. Jeff is actively involved in the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) through its Board of Directors, the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, the Centre Club, Hillels of the Florida Suncoast, and Instruments of Change. He and his wife, Cara, and their dog, Bailee, reside in Tampa. Jeff often is sought out to provide workshops and seminars in the areas of: Insurance Needs of the Business Owner The Value of Life Insurance Why Long-Term Care is Important Identifying Common Gaps in Insurance Coverage

Mary Shields

Mary specializes in working with successful, accomplished individuals and families that have intricate private insurance needs. She analyzes their risks and collaborates with her clients and team at Insurance and Trust to design customized insurance packages with the goal to ultimately deliver them peace of mind. She offers a personal level of service and works to build and maintain long-lasting connections with her clients. This relationship-building approach allows her to understand and address her client’s needs fully. Mary has over 19 years of unique experience and background in client relations. Prior to joining Insurance and Trust in 2012, Mary gained 10 years of experience working as a certified paralegal at law firms in the Tampa Bay area, where she handled and assisted attorneys’ affluent clientele with their legal needs, including probate and estate planning, real estate transactions, and corporate formations. A Florida Native, Mary graduated from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg with a bachelor’s degree in business management. Mary holds her Florida property and casualty license. She is dedicated to her community and volunteers regularly at her church – Grace Family Church. Mary is an active member of the Junior League of Tampa. She enjoys an active lifestyle, which includes cycling and kayaking. She also loves exploring Florida’s parks, beaches and springs in her free time, and spending quality time with family and friends.

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