Written by Denise Koslowsky, Director, Cross Private Client Insurance • Scarsdale Business Beat, March 2025 • VOL. 2, No. 2
Cross Private Client Insurance: Merging Strengths, Empowering Women & Strengthening Scarsdale
In an era dominated by large, impersonal insurance conglomerates, Cross Private Client Insurance stands out as a family-owned agency that prioritizes personalized service. Formerly known as Advocate Brokerage, this premier Scarsdale insurance agency has maintained its commitment to excellence while benefiting from the enhanced resources of the Cross Insurance family. By integrating a group of elite agencies throughout New England and New York, Cross Private Client Insurance has strengthened its ability to serve clients with unparalleled expertise and care.
Navigating Industry Challenges
Independent insurance agencies like Advocate Brokerage have faced increasing challenges in recent years. Stringent New York State regulations required significant investments in cyber and legal resources, making it difficult for smaller firms to sustain operations without extensive infrastructure. Additionally, the hardening property and casualty insurance market necessitated a greater reliance on non-admitted insurance solutions. By becoming part of Cross Insurance, the agency gained access to vital resources, allowing its team to focus on delivering top-tier client service.
A Different Path: Prioritizing Expertise Over Private Equity
Unlike many competitors that opted for private equity-backed acquisitions, the leadership at Advocate Brokerage took a different approach. Observing the industry shift, the team recognized the pitfalls of private equity ownership—particularly the tendency to prioritize financial efficiencies over customer service. Instead, the Cross model embraces deep industry expertise and a people-first philosophy, ensuring that clients receive the dedicated attention they deserve.
The Perfect Fit: Cross Insurance and Advocate Brokerage
The decision to join Cross Insurance was driven by shared values and a commitment to excellence. The father-and-son leadership team of Royce and Jonathan Cross provided the ideal support system, allowing the Scarsdale office to maintain its client-focused approach without the administrative burdens of a standalone business. With Cross Insurance’s backing, the Scarsdale office continues to be a model of exceptional service and industry expertise in the New York region.
Regional Focus, Personalized Service
Cross Private Client Insurance’s regional approach aligns perfectly with the needs of its clients. While national disasters in distant states impact the broader insurance market, the agency’s primary focus remains on serving clients in the Northeast and Tri-State areas. This localized perspective enables the team to respond swiftly to regional challenges, ensuring that clients receive the highest level of support when it matters most.
Empowering Women in Business
The agency’s dedication to empowering women is deeply rooted in its history. Advocate Brokerage was founded 56 years ago by Rosalyn Binday, who was a trailblazer in the male-dominated insurance industry. Rosalyn passed down her skills and leadership to her daughter Denise Koslowsky who heads the Private Client Insurance division of Cross Insurance New York. Today, the Scarsdale office remains a female-led powerhouse, inspired by industry leaders such as Kathy Tierney, President of Berkley One. Sponsoring the Women in Business event alongside Berkley One was a natural extension of this legacy, celebrating the achievements of women in the industry and beyond.
Supporting the Scarsdale Community
Cross Private Client Insurance is deeply invested in the success of the Scarsdale community. As the lead sponsor of the Destination Scarsdale Campaign, the agency reinforces its commitment to local businesses and residents. By supporting initiatives that enhance community well-being, Cross Insurance strengthens its bond with clients and fosters long-term relationships built on trust.
A Lead Sponsor for the Destination Scarsdale Campaign
As a lead sponsor of the Destination Scarsdale Campaign, Cross Private Client Insurance plays a vital role in promoting economic growth and community engagement. This initiative showcases the best of Scarsdale, supporting local businesses and enhancing the overall vitality of the area. By taking on this leadership role, Cross Private Client Insurance continues its tradition of community investment and client-centered service.
A Partner in Business Growth
Beyond providing insurance solutions, Cross Insurance plays an active role in fostering business growth in Scarsdale. The agency serves as a valuable resource for businesses and residents, offering expert advice even to non-clients. In an ever-evolving insurance landscape, Cross Private Client Insurance remains dedicated to educating and guiding clients through the complexities of property and casualty insurance.
Investing in Local Initiatives
Building strong community ties is at the heart of Cross Private Client Insurance’s philosophy. By investing in local initiatives and maintaining an active presence in Scarsdale, the agency demonstrates its unwavering commitment to the people it serves. Clients can trust that their insurance provider is not only knowledgeable but also deeply invested in their well-being.
Get in Touch
For more information about Cross Private Client Insurance and the services offered, contact the team at 914-723-7100 or email Denise Koslowsky at [email protected]