Holmes Murphy Expands into North Dakota to Serve Growing Construction Market
Waukee-based Holmes Murphy, one of the nation’s largest independent insurance brokerages, is expanding its geographic footprint into Fargo, North Dakota, driven by a surge in construction activity in the upper Midwest. The expansion aims to enhance accessibility for clients and strengthen relationships within the region’s growing construction sector.
Growth Fueled by Construction Boom
The decision to expand into Fargo is directly linked to a significant building boom in the city and surrounding areas. The $3.2 billion Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Project, a major flood control initiative, is a key driver of construction, with the Metro Flood Diversion Authority budgeting $1 billion for the project in 2026 alone . Additional projects include a new convention center, an expansion of Hector International Airport and a $50 million Border States warehouse . The Fargo-Moorhead metro area is projected to grow from roughly 261,600 people to nearly 340,000 by 2045 .
New Leadership Appointed
To lead the expansion efforts in North Dakota, Holmes Murphy has appointed Mark Julik, a veteran in the insurance and construction industries. Julik previously served as the Construction Practice Leader at Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA) for over 18 years, where he advised builders and contractors on risk management, contract reviews, and safety initiatives . Prior to his tenure at MMA, Julik spent nearly five years at Gallagher .
Strategic Importance of the Expansion
“Establishing a physical presence in North Dakota allows us to expand our geographic footprint and further strengthen our ability to serve clients across the upper Midwest,” said Jay Reavis, Holmes Murphy President of Brokerage Services . Dan Etzel, Holmes Murphy SVP, Regional Sales Leader and Construction Leader, emphasized Julik’s experience as a valuable asset to the company’s construction partners .
About Holmes Murphy
Holmes Murphy is one of the nation’s largest independent insurance brokerages, independently owned since its founding in 1932 .