SIC Services was built with customers in mind and the values we believe in. Meet the team:

Karen Alford brings more than 26 years of hands-on experience in the Excess & Surplus (E&S) industry to her recruiting business.

Throughout her career at Scottsdale Insurance Company / Nationwide E&S, Karen held a variety of impactful roles—including Underwriting Assistant, Claims Adjuster (specializing in both Transportation and Casualty lines), Marketing Consultant, Business & Learning Consultant, and Project Manager. She led numerous underwriting company-wide initiatives that required identifying, aligning, and mobilizing the right people—whether associates or clients—to achieve strategic business goals. Her deep understanding of team dynamics and organizational success directly translates to her ability to identify and place top talent in the E&S industry.

Karen has also been an active contributor to the broader insurance community. She was a member of the Under Forty Organization (UFO) within AAMGA (now WSIA), where she served as Associate Chair of the UFO Board of Directors. From 2014 to 2018, she founded and led the AAMGA/WSIA Emerging Issues and Innovation Committee. Her vision was to unite industry professionals to collectively examine emerging risks and trends, assess their potential impact, and develop strategies to either mitigate these risks or capitalize on new opportunities. Assembling this high-performing committee required in-depth industry insight and a keen eye for subject matter expertise—skills Karen now applies in her recruiting efforts.

One of the highlights of Karen’s career was a week-long international visit to Lloyd’s of London. There, she engaged with Lloyd’s executives—including then-President Inga Beale—and gained firsthand exposure to the operations of the London Market. Observing underwriters and brokers at work in “The Box” provided invaluable insight and remains one of her most memorable professional experiences.

Karen’s reputation is built on integrity, results, and long-standing relationships. Her clients trust her deep industry knowledge, tireless work ethic, and ability to deliver. She brings unmatched passion, experience, and insight to every search, making her a trusted partner in E&S recruiting.

Outside of work, Karen is a devoted wife to her husband, a dedicated Fire Captain, and a proud mother to their daughter, Peyton. She finds daily joy in the company of their beloved rescue pup, Bailey. Grounded in strong faith, Karen and her family are passionate about giving back, actively volunteering and supporting causes that hold deep personal meaning.

Kelley Hawpe is Vice President at SIC Services E&S Recruitment Group, bringing over 24 years of experience in the Excess & Surplus (E&S) industry.

Kelley began her career at Colonial General Insurance Company, a Scottsdale-based wholesale broker, where she worked as an underwriter. It was there that she developed a deep appreciation for the complexity and opportunity within the E&S space—along with forging lasting industry relationships. Her early exposure included close collaboration with Scottsdale Insurance Company underwriters, active participation in industry conferences, and completion of her ASLI and AINS designations.

Over the years, Kelley has gained well-rounded industry expertise through a variety of roles, including Underwriter, Product Development & Training at Scottsdale Insurance/Nationwide, Multi-Company Auditor at Cochrane & Company, and Project Manager. Her broad skillset and deep understanding of the E&S space make her a valuable asset to clients and candidates alike.

While at Scottsdale Insurance Company, Kelley worked alongside Karen Alford, where a professional relationship grew into a long-standing friendship. Years later, their paths have come full circle, now collaborating once again—this time to strengthen the E&S industry by identifying and placing top talent.

Kelley is passionate about helping others find the right opportunity—not just in terms of skills, but also in alignment with their long-term goals. She’s known for her unwavering energy, positive outlook, and sincere commitment to the success of others. Her supportive nature and sharp industry insight make her a driving force in recruitment.

Outside of work, Kelley finds joy in her home life with her husband Michael, their two children, and two rambunctious pups. She’s grateful for the many blessings in her life, crediting her faith and family for keeping her grounded and inspired every day.