Dan Ross
Dan Ross, Managing Director of Northern Illinois, leads growth efforts across the region and supports the firm’s continued expansion in the Rockford market. Having spent most of his life in Northern Illinois, Dan brings deep ties to the local business community and a passion for helping businesses, individuals and communities thrive. He works closely with M3 colleagues to strengthen market presence, foster new connections and ensure clients receive the trusted guidance and partnership that define the M3 experience.
His relationship with M3 began long before he joined the organization. During two decades in the insurance industry, he became familiar with M3 through his previous roles and developed a strong admiration for its people and leadership. That admiration deepened when one of his business partners retired unexpectedly. M3 stepped in to help the agency maintain its book of business while it explored a long-term solution. When Dan later had the chance to join M3, the decision felt natural.
Throughout his career, Dan has focused on empowering people, strengthening culture and helping others achieve their best outcomes. In a previous role, he helped more than double the size of an agency, transforming it into a regional organization while cultivating a workplace recognized among the area’s top employers of its size.
Dan believes meaningful client relationships are built by serving as an advisor, not simply a provider of products. He wants clients to view M3 as an extension of their own organizations, with trusted professionals they can rely on through periods of growth and challenge alike. In Northern Illinois, he is focused on elevating M3’s presence, clearing roadblocks and helping clients and colleagues achieve success together.
Outside of work.
Dan is passionate about the arts and the opportunities they create for participants and audiences. He also enjoys fishing, trap and skeet shooting, leisurely lake boating, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Education.
Bachelor of Science in Finance, University of Illinois
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Strategic Management, DePaul University
Involvement
- UW Health Northern Illinois, Chair elect
- Rockford Area Arts Council and the Rockford Performing Arts Alliance, Treasurer
- Klehm Arboretum, Treasurer
- Stillman Bank, board member
- Alpha Alumni of Beta Sigma Psi, board chair
- 40 Leaders Under 40, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC)
Designations
- Licensed life and health agent in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Texas and Colorado
- Licensed property and casualty agent in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Texas and Colorado