J.M. Wilson Acquired by Ryan Specialty in Strategic Expansion
Deal News | Jun 13, 2025 | Re-Insurance News

Ryan Specialty, a global specialty insurance provider, has announced its decision to acquire J.M. Wilson Corporation, a Michigan-based firm known for providing a range of insurance products including personal lines, surety, and transportation services. This acquisition, expected to be finalized in the third quarter of 2025, will see J.M. Wilson integrated into RT Binding Authority, a division of Ryan Specialty focusing on binding authority specialties. Founded in 1920, J.M. Wilson has a strong track record, demonstrated by its $19 million operating revenue for the period ending January 31st, 2025. The company has established robust relationships with high-quality carriers in the transportation sector due to its profitable underwriting history. The acquisition aligns with Ryan Specialty's strategy to enhance its Midwest binding authority presence and strengthen its transportation expertise. Both Ed McCormack of RT Specialty and David Wilson of J.M. Wilson have expressed enthusiasm about the merger, highlighting shared values and a commitment to expertise and client-focused service. Financial advisory was provided by Philo Smith.
Sectors
- Insurance
- Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
Geography
- United States – The transaction involves two American companies, Ryan Specialty and J.M. Wilson, with offices and operations primarily within the U.S.
- Michigan – J.M. Wilson is based in Michigan, making it a key geographic area in the context of the acquisition by Ryan Specialty.
Industry
- Insurance – The primary industry in the article is Insurance, focusing on specialty insurance products such as personal lines, surety, and transportation, with firms like Ryan Specialty and J.M. Wilson operating in this sector.
- Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) – The acquisition of J.M. Wilson by Ryan Specialty falls under the M&A sector, indicating strategic growth and expansion through corporate transactions.
Financials
- $19 million – Operating revenue of J.M. Wilson for the 12 months ended January 31st, 2025.
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Ryan Specialty | Bidding Company | Company | An international firm focused on providing specialty insurance services. |
J.M. Wilson Corporation | Target Company | Company | A Michigan-based insurance firm offering a range of products, particularly notable for its expertise in transportation and underwriting. |
RT Binding Authority | Acquirer Division | Division | A division of Ryan Specialty that will incorporate J.M. Wilson’s operations. |
Ed McCormack | Person Quoted | Person | Chief Executive Officer, RT Specialty, commented on the acquisition. |
David Wilson | Person Quoted | Person | President of J.M. Wilson, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition. |
Philo Smith | Financial Advisor | Company | Served as the exclusive financial advisor to J.M. Wilson for the acquisition. |