About Us | Advantage Benefits Group

Robert L. Hughes, REBC, RHU, LUTCF, AIF®; Employee Benefits Specialist: Robert, a graduate from Michigan State University, has over 21 years of experience as an Independent agent. Before forming Advantage Benefits Group, Robert was head of Grand Rapids Holland Insurance Agency’s employee benefits division and was also past president of The Grand Rapids Association of Life Underwriters. Robert has spoken internationally on employee benefit issues. Robert also serves on the Big Brothers, Big Sisters Advisory Board and is a member of The Million Dollar Round Table. Robert is currently and consistently a qualifier for the top of the table. Robert is on the board of the West Michigan Sports Council and is proud to be a Junior Achievement Instructor. Bob also currently chairs the Grand Rapids Chambers Committee for Health Care and Human Resources
Kurt B. Swardenski, REBC, RHU; Employee Benefits Specialist: Kurt joined Advantage Benefits Group in 2002 after 15 years with The Travelers and Aetna. He has twenty years of experience designing and implementing cost effective benefit packages for employers of all sizes. As Director of Sales and Customer Relations, Kurt led both local and regional teams managing the benefit programs for 75 large, key account customers. Kurt spends his leisure time with his wife and three sons playing golf, hockey, and coaching soccer.
Michael S. Hill, REBC, RHU; Employee Benefits Specialist: Michael joined Advantage Benefits Group after graduating Magna Cum Laude from Hope College in 2000. Since that time, Michael has helped Advantage Benefits Group embrace technology by introducing state of the art web sites to help Advantage employee's better service our clients. Adept at developing plan designs and long-term strategies, Michael has proven a vital asset to Advantage Benefits Group. Michael currently serves on the Board of the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club and is Vice President of Holland Young Professionals. He also serves on the Small Business Committee for the Holland Chamber of Commerce.
Toby D. Tucker, CMFC: Employee Benefits Specialist: Before joining Advantage Benefits Group in 2006, Toby was the head of a local agency’s Employee Benefits Division. Toby has over 6 years of experience specializing in investment and financial analysis for both individuals, and employer sponsored plans. Toby is the President-Elect of Lansing-National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. Toby is also a qualifying member of The Million Dollar Round Table.
Michael J. Cutlip, CEBS; Employee Benefits Specialist: Since joining Advantage Benefits Group, Mike has helped clients create competitive employee benefit programs for their employees. He has also used his self funding, underwriting and communication skills to help his clients control costs that employees value and appreciate. Throughout his career, Mike has worked on projects for clients with 10 to 15,000 employees. He graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Finance and an emphasis in mathematics. Mike is a member of the Society of Certified Employee Benefits Specialists and the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, coaching, water skiing, cross country skiing and watching MSU sports.
Char Pearson, Account Manager: Char joined Advantage Benefits Group in early 1998, with over 13 years of experience in the areas of human resources and employee benefits from Structural Concepts Corporation and Horizon Group Properties in Muskegon. Char works as an advocate for our clients and their employees whenever assistance is needed. This includes questions or issues regarding their health, dental, life or disability plans or the groups retirement plan. Char enjoys reading, travel, and spending time with her grandchildren.
Heather Opacki, Account Manager: Heather started with Advantage Benefits Group in March of 2003. She graduated from Michigan State University in 1999 and within two years was managing 20+ employees through a daycare program run by a local school system. While directing this program, Heather honed her management and cost reduction skills. Heather's daily responsibilities include preparing fully insured medical renewals, solving claim and billing issues as well as conducting employee education meetings. Heather's goal is to provide our clients with an experienced ally focused on continuing Advantage Benefits Group innovation and leadership in the benefits arena. Heather enjoys cooking, gardening and pretends to enjoy working out.
Jessica Smith, Account Manager: A graduate of Grand Valley State University, Jessie brings to Advantage Benefits Group over four years of employee benefits experience. While in school, she worked directly with the Human Resource Director formulating, developing and helping to implement GVSU's benefits plans. Jessie was also responsible for resolving claim issues and answering coverage questions. Jessie recently purchased her first home in Hudsonville and has been staying busy with all the activities related to home ownership.
Leslie Smith, Account Manager: Leslie obtained her MBA with an emphasis in Human Resources from Davenport University after attending Grand Valley State University for her undergraduate studies. She has a varied knowledge base with regards to all employee benefits. Leslie has worked with benefits in a university setting as well as with a local TPA assisting local businesses with administering their employee benefit programs. Leslie enjoys movies, traveling, and sampling ethnic dishes.
Sara Watson, Client Services Coordinator: A new addition to Advantage Benefits Group, Sara started in February, 2008. After seven years of managing the restaurant at Macatawa Bay Yacht Club, she brings with her excellent customer service and management skills. Currently pursuing a degree in business management with a specialty in entrepreneurship from Davenport University, Sara is also a full-time college student. When she has free time, she enjoys spending it with her friends and family.