Leadership Team

Mary Gardner serves as Executive Director of The Advantage Group, LLC (TAG), bringing decades of experience in the property and casualty insurance industry and a passion for supporting the independent agency system.

Since joining TAG in 2022, Mary has focused on strengthening carrier partnerships, creating opportunities for member agencies, and maximizing the collective advantages of the organization. Working closely with agency owners and industry partners, she is committed to helping independent agencies remain competitive, profitable, and successful while preserving the independence that makes them unique.

Prior to joining TAG, Mary held leadership positions with PURE Insurance, most recently serving as Assistant Vice President and Senior Sales and Marketing Manager. Her extensive career also includes significant experience with Safeco Insurance, where she developed a deep understanding of independent agency distribution, business development, and the importance of mutually beneficial carrier relationships. Mary holds six professional insurance designations: Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Associate in Claims (AIC), Associate in Management (AIM), Certified Personal Risk Manager (CPRM), and Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA).

Throughout her career, Mary has been a strong advocate for collaboration, professional development, and the independent agency community. She believes that the greatest opportunities come from bringing talented people together, sharing knowledge, and building relationships grounded in trust and mutual respect.

Mary takes pride in the relationships she has developed throughout her career and in helping agency owners achieve greater success together than they could individually. This is core philosophy that embodies TAG's mission: "Created by Agents for Agents."

Bill Magas brings more than 35 years of insurance industry experience and a unique historical perspective to his role on the Management Committee of The Advantage Group, LLC (TAG). As President of Magas Insurance Agency in Bellingham, Washington, Bill has dedicated his career to serving his community and advancing the independent agency system.

Bill began his insurance career in 1989, joining the family business founded by his parents, Larry & Marilyn Magas, in 1978. He assumed leadership of the agency in 2000, continuing the family's tradition of providing personalized insurance solutions and dependable service to individuals, families, and businesses throughout Washington State.

Bill's connection to TAG dates back to its founding in 1990, when his father; Larry Magas was among the original 4 member agencies that recognized the value of independent agencies joining forces. Having witnessed TAG's evolution over more than three decades, Bill brings an invaluable understanding of the organization's history, founding principles, and the opportunities created through cooperation among independent agency owners.

As a member of TAG's Management Committee, Bill draws upon his extensive experience in agency ownership and his longstanding involvement with the organization to help guide decisions that support its members. His perspective reflects both an appreciation for TAG's history and an understanding of the challenges facing independent agencies in today's changing insurance marketplace.

Bill takes pride in carrying forward two important legacies: the family insurance agency his father established and the collaborative vision that helped establish TAG. His years of experience, institutional knowledge, and dedication to the independent agency system make him a valued member of TAG's leadership team.

With more than 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, Tracy Martin has built her career on a foundation of exceptional client service, trusted relationships, and a genuine commitment to helping people protect what matters most.

Tracy joined Vic's Insurance Agency in Woodinville, Washington, in 1998 and became its owner in January 2024, proudly continuing the legacy of a family-owned agency that has served its community since 1964. Her decades of experience have given her a deep understanding of the insurance needs of individuals, families, and businesses, as well as the importance of providing thoughtful, personalized guidance.

Throughout her career, Tracy has earned the respect of clients and industry colleagues alike. Her dedication to service and professionalism was recognized when she received The Advantage Group's ACE Award, honoring her outstanding client service, industry expertise, and contributions to the insurance community.

As a member of The Advantage Group's Management Committee, Tracy offers the practical perspective of an agency owner who understands the day-to-day realities of running an independent insurance business. She values the opportunity to exchange ideas with fellow owners, share experiences, and contribute to decisions that support TAG's membership.

Tracy believes that the strength of an independent agency lies in the relationships it builds and the trust it earns. Whether serving her clients, leading her agency, or contributing to TAG, she approaches her work with dedication, integrity, and a sincere desire to see others succeed.

Ryan Porter serves on the Management Committee of The Advantage Group, LLC (TAG) and is Vice President of Porter Whidbey Insurance in Freeland, Washington. A fifth-generation Whidbey Island resident, Ryan has built his insurance career around a commitment to his community, professional excellence, and advancing the independent agency system.

Ryan joined his family's insurance agency in 2006, continuing a tradition of service that began when Porter Whidbey Insurance was founded in 1966. As a third-generation family-owned agency, Porter Whidbey has maintained a strong reputation for personalized service, trusted relationships, and community involvement. Ryan takes pride in carrying that legacy forward while helping the agency adapt to the changing needs of its clients and the insurance marketplace.

Ryan's contributions to the industry extend well beyond his agency. He served as President of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Washington (IIABW) in 2024, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for independent agents throughout the state. His leadership and dedication have earned him significant industry recognition, including the prestigious IIABW Agent of the Year Award in 2018 and Young Agent of the Year Award in 2013.

In addition to his industry involvement, Ryan has been active in his local community through the Rotary Club of South Whidbey Island and the Greater Freeland Chamber of Commerce. His dedication to community service reflects the values that have shaped both his personal and professional life.

As a member of TAG's Management Committee, Ryan brings a forward-thinking perspective grounded in his experience as a next-generation agency leader. He understands the importance of balancing the traditions that have made independent agencies successful with the innovation and adaptability needed to thrive in an evolving industry.

Ryan's enthusiasm for the independent agency system, demonstrated leadership, and commitment to giving back make him a valued member of TAG's leadership team.

With more than 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, Tom Rossetto brings extensive industry knowledge, business insight, and a strong commitment to the independent agency system to The Advantage Group, LLC (TAG).

Tom is a partner at W Insurance Group, an independent insurance agency based in Tacoma, Washington, which joined TAG in 2023. Throughout his career, Tom has developed extensive expertise in commercial insurance, particularly in construction risks and surety bonding. His ability to navigate complex exposures and develop thoughtful insurance solutions has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor to businesses throughout the Pacific Northwest.

A graduate of Santa Clara University, Tom holds the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation, reflecting his dedication to professional excellence and continued education.

As Treasurer of TAG, Tom helps oversee the organization's financial affairs, providing thoughtful oversight and supporting its long-term financial stability.

As a member of TAG's New Member Committee, where he plays an important role in helping prospective agency owners explore the benefits of TAG membership and evaluate whether the organization aligns with their business goals and values. Having experienced the membership process firsthand, Tom brings a valuable perspective to these conversations. His involvement extends beyond recruitment, as he helps new members navigate the transition into TAG, build relationships within the group, and take full advantage of the resources and opportunities available to them.

Tom believes that successful partnerships begin with shared values, open communication, and a genuine commitment to mutual success. His approachable style, industry experience, and willingness to share his knowledge make him a valued resource to both prospective and existing TAG members.

Marty Stauffer is the owner of Stauffer Insurance, an independent insurance agency located in Lynden, Washington. With a strong background in the insurance industry and an entrepreneurial approach to agency ownership, Marty has built his career around developing lasting relationships, serving his community, and helping clients make informed decisions about their insurance needs.

Coming from a multigenerational insurance background, Marty understands the value of independent agency ownership and the importance of building a business grounded in trust, personal service, and strong relationships. His commitment to educating clients and providing thoughtful insurance solutions has been a cornerstone of his professional career.

Since joining The Advantage Group, LLC (TAG) in 2025, Marty has become an enthusiastic advocate for the organization. He recognizes the tremendous value that TAG membership brings to his own agency, particularly through expanded carrier relationships, shared knowledge, collaboration with fellow owners, and opportunities to accelerate agency growth.

Marty's positive experience and belief in the strength of TAG inspired him to serve on the organization's New Member Committee. Passionate about introducing other independent agency owners to the benefits of membership, Marty enjoys sharing his firsthand experience and helping prospective members understand how TAG can support their individual business goals. He believes that bringing together ambitious, like-minded agency owners strengthens the entire organization and creates opportunities for everyone involved.

Marty brings energy, enthusiasm, and an entrepreneurial perspective to TAG. His willingness to share his experiences, champion the benefits of membership, and encourage the success of fellow independent agents makes him a valuable contributor to the group's continued growth.

Sean Tripple is a fifth-generation insurance professional and owner of Tripple, Tripple & Tripple, LLC, an independent insurance agency in Edmonds, Washington. Founded in 1898 by his great-great-grandfather, Robert A. Tripple, the agency has served generations of families and businesses throughout the Puget Sound region for more than 125 years.

With more than 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, Sean has built his career on the values that have defined his family's business for generations: personal relationships, integrity, and a commitment to providing knowledgeable insurance guidance. Working alongside his father, Rob, and sister, Heidi, Sean continues the family's longstanding tradition of independent agency ownership while helping position the business for future success.

Since joining The Advantage Group, LLC (TAG) in 2025, Sean has become an active contributor to the organization. As a member of TAG's New Member Committee, he helps prospective agency owners explore the benefits of membership and determine whether TAG is the right fit for their business. His experience with a multigenerational, family-owned agency provides a valuable perspective on balancing independence, tradition, and opportunities for growth.

Sean's contributions to TAG extend beyond membership development. He has also played an important role in reviewing and updating TAG's Operational Manual, helping strengthen the organization's procedures, improve consistency, and ensure TAG continues to operate efficiently and professionally as its membership grows.

Sean appreciates the importance of building an organization that will serve its members not just today, but for years to come. His respect for the past, practical approach to organizational improvement, and willingness to contribute his time and expertise make him a valued member of the TAG team.