Our Representatives

Michael Chernoff in Tampa, Florida

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 in Tampa, Florida

Jeff Chernoff

Jeff Chernoff is a Tampa native, experienced insurance advisor, and president of his family-owned firm, Insurance and Trust. He specializes in comprehensive insurance strategies for individuals, families, and business owners. Jeff offers personal and commercial insurance solutions including homeowners, auto, excess liability, flood, life, disability income, and long-term care coverage. He previously held leadership roles at the University of North Dakota, Ferris State University, and Virginia Tech. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida and a Master’s Degree from the University of North Dakota. Jeff is active in the professional community through the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). He is a past President of NAIFA-Florida and NAIFA-Tampa Bay, and has served on the boards of the Centre Club, Hillels of the Florida Suncoast, and Instruments of Change. He is frequently invited to lead workshops and seminars on: Protecting Your Home, Auto, and Assets | Understanding Property and Casualty Insurance | Insurance Needs of the Business Owner | The Value of Life Insurance | Why Long-Term Care is Important | Identifying Common Gaps in Insurance Coverage. Jeff currently serves on the boards of the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and Stageworks. He lives in Tampa with his wife, Cara, and their son, and is committed to helping clients make insurance decisions with confidence and peace of mind.

Mary Shields in Tampa, Florida

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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