About The Team
Skillman Insurance Partners is a second-generation, family-run insurance agency based in Downtown St. Petersburg.
We specialize in providing personalized, local support for health, life, Medicare, and employee benefits. Our mission is simple: combine expert guidance with exceptional service to help individuals, families, and small businesses find the right coverage — without the stress or confusion. Unlike large call-center operations or impersonal brokers, we focus on building long-term relationships.
When you work with us, you're working directly with licensed agents who know your name, understand your needs, and are available year-round for support.
OUR VALUES:
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We’re not here to upsell — we’re here to help. Our job is to make sure you understand your options and feel confident in your decisions. You’ll never get a pushy pitch from us, just honest guidance and long-term support.
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As a family-run agency based in St. Petersburg, we understand the local landscape — but we also know how to navigate the ever-changing insurance world. We balance a hometown mindset with statewide expertise to deliver the best of both worlds.
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Insurance is complicated — we simplify it. Our role is to walk you through every step and explain things in plain English, so you’re empowered to make the right choices for yourself, your family, or your business.
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We believe real support means being reachable when you need us. Whether it’s a quick question, claim issue, or a full plan review, you can count on us to respond — by call, text, email, or face-to-face.
Meet the Team
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Jim Buck
With over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, Jim Buck laid the foundation for what Skillman Insurance is today. Originally operating under the name JLB Inc., Jim built the agency on the values of trust, service, and a commitment to doing right by every client. Under his leadership, the agency became a trusted resource for individuals and businesses throughout the St. Petersburg area.
As he transitioned the day-to-day operations to his daughter Hannah, Jim continues to play an active role behind the scenes—focusing on complex claims, billing disputes, and using his decades of expertise to support the team and clients when it matters most.
Jim’s legacy is woven into every part of Skillman Insurance, and his passion for helping others continues to guide the agency’s approach today.
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Hannah Skillman
As a former healthcare executive, Hannah has seen the complexities of the healthcare system from all sides. With firsthand experience in both delivering care and navigating the financial side of healthcare, Hannah understands how overwhelming the process can be.
Now, as a licensed insurance professional, Hannah is dedicated to serving individuals , guiding you through every step of your healthcare journey with compassion and expertise.
This isn’t something new though, Hannah’s family has been in the insurance business over 30 years and she is grateful to have grown up watching them serve their clients well so that she could learn the ropes and eventually take over the business.
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Matt Shapiro
Matt is an honorary family member. Having known Hannah for over 25 it just seemed natural to include him in the family business.
Before joining the agency, Matt spent years running his family’s retail business in Downtown St. Petersburg (SHAPIRO'S Gallery), giving him first-hand insight into the unique challenges small business owners face — especially when it comes to employee benefits and insurance planning.
Matt brings a relationship-first approach to his work, offering in-person support, follow-through, and a strong sense of responsibility to each client. He specializes in health insurance, small group benefits, and Medicare, and takes pride in helping people find meaningful coverage they can rely on.
As both a former small business owner and local resident, Matt understands the value of being accessible, accountable, and deeply invested in the well-being of his clients.
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Kelly Sarratt
Kelly is the heart of operations at Skillman Insurance. From onboarding paperwork and policy updates to the fine details that keep everything running smoothly, she’s the one behind the scenes making it all happen. If you've ever received a perfectly organized document, a timely follow-up, or a helpful resource from our team—chances are, you have Kelly to thank.
In addition to her critical role here, Kelly is also a licensed speech and language pathologist. Her natural ability to communicate clearly and support others shines through in everything she does, both inside and outside the office.
Kelly’s dedication, attention to detail, and quiet efficiency make her an invaluable part of the Skillman team—and a big reason our clients feel so taken care of.
Medicare Planning
Turning 65 or retiring soon?
We guide you through your Medicare options, including supplements, Advantage plans, and Part D coverage—making sure nothing gets missed.
Group & Individual
Health Insurance
Custom benefits packages to support your business and your team
Whether you're self-employed, in between jobs, or running a small business, we make navigating the Marketplace simple.
Life Insurance
Protect what matters most.
From simple term plans to permanent coverage, we’ll help you choose the right life insurance for your family, future, and peace of mind.