About Cathy Merz Insurance
Our History
Founded in 1993 by Donna M. Carlson, the business roots started in Vancouver, WA. Cathy Merz took over the business in 2010 and has continued the legacy of exceptional customer service and lasting relationships with clients. In 2024, Cathy Merz Insurance was acquired by Capital Benefit Group to increase their capabilities and program access. The staff and great way of doing business haven't changed though. Serving Oregon for over 30 years now.
Our Team
Our staff strives to deliver access to tailored health insurance and employee benefit options with special emphasis on prompt and lasting customer service.
Cathy Merz
VP of Employee Benefits
Cathy began her insurance career at Great West Life Insurance in 1991, selling self-funded programs and 401(k) plans. Upon moving to the Pacific Northwest, she joined Kaiser Permanente as a large-group sales executive. In 1998, she spearheaded the retirement plan division at Campbell Galt and Newlands. In 2010, she purchased Donna M. Carlson Insurance and expanded the agency. Cathy enjoys volleyball, reading, and spending time with her husband and three children.
Becka Kemper
Account Manager
Becka has lived in the Northwest her whole life. She began working at Dutch Bros and fell in love with the culture of customer service! She was promoted to Store Manager of the busiest 24-hour stand in Oregon. Now she is excited about what lies ahead here with Cathy Merz Insurance as she recently got her insurance license. She currently lives in a cabin in Banks, surrounded by family. When she isn’t at work, she loves hiking, camping and spending time with her husband, two boys and her chocolate lab.
Joseph Easly
Account Manager
Joseph Easly is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in both military and civilian roles. After serving in the ARMY for five years, Joseph transitioned to a career in healthcare, working at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) in the Infectious Disease department. With a passion for education, he also contributed to the community as a substitute teacher, sharing knowledge and inspiring students. Joseph's unique blend of experiences in the military, healthcare, and education showcases a commitment to service and excellence.
Cindy Madsen
Account Manager - Medicare
Cindy graduated in Finance from Northern Illinois University and soon thereafter joined a financial advisor there in Illinois. Later in Colorado, she joined a marketing firm handling national accounts for Chevy & Cadillac. In 2021, she joined Cathy Merz Insurance and has loved working with the team. Cindy and her husband now enjoy hiking and outdoor activities in sunny Colorado.
Tori Talbert
Account Manager
Tori started her career in the health insurance and retirement industry. Tori focused on retirement planning for 13 years, took a break to raise her two sons and came back to health insurance a few years ago. She enjoys building relationships with the clients and becoming a trusted source of information and support. Outside of work, Tori enjoys all things hockey! Tori is very involved with the Jr. Winterhawks organization that her youngest son plays for at the AA level (her older son aged out; he played for 12 years). Tori also has other interests outside of hockey like gardening, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.
Locations We Serve
Serving all of Oregon and parts of Southwest Washington.
Community Involvement
Making a difference in the lives of those in need.
Food Lifeline
As part of Capital Benefit Group (CBG), Cathy Merz Insurance (CMI) participates in the "Food Frenzy" fundraiser with Food Lifeline. Food Frenzy specifically focuses on feeding families during the summer months when many children are not receiving the meals they normally would during school. It is a high-need time and CBG has done it's part to be a cause for good, raising thousands of dollars each year and providing nourishing meals to those in need.
Rampathon
As part of the Capital Benefit Group Family, CMI is proud to support the MBA Rampathon, an inspiring initiative led by the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties. The service event involves building ramps for individuals in need, enhancing accessibility and improving lives within the community.
The MBA pairs CBG up in teams with skilled builders and other volunteers to help construct safe and reliable ramps that enable greater independence for those with mobility challenges. Last year the ramp that CBG helped build in Mountlake Terrace allowed a disabled woman to leave her house for the first time in over 9 months. Building a better community, one ramp at a time.
Wellspring Family Service
As part of Capital Benefit Group, CMI is committed to supporting Wellspring Family Services and their mission to end family homelessness. The CBG team has actively engaged to provide resources and support families in need. By partnering with Wellspring, CBG has been able to donate time, service, and dollars toward creating safe and stable housing solutions to those facing trouble.
An especially great opportunity has been to serve at the Family Store, organizing clothing, packing essentials, and prepping orders for families in need. CBG strives to make a meaningful impact by helping build stronger, more resilient, and more compassionate communities.
Careers
Whatever you do, do it well.
At Cathy Merz Insurance, we believe that if we put our people first, good results will come naturally. Our team is a small, tightly-knit group that often feels like family. We love being here because we each have an impactful role and don't get lost as another cog in the system.
Whether you're a seasoned veteran in the insurance industry or are brand new to health insurance, consider joining Cathy Merz Insurance for the next step in your professional career.
Candidates who have had prior experience in sales or service to small/medium businesses, recruiting, HR, banking, and financial services are highly encouraged to apply.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, simply fill out the form with your details and upload your resume. Once submitted, our team will review your application and get in touch with you.