Meet Our Team
At Independence Insurance Agency, we've built our team with individuals who have the highest standards for client communication and servicing. No matter who you interact with at Independence Insurance Agency, you'll have the best experience possible.
Get Familiar With The Independence Insurance Agency Team
I founded Independencei Insurance Agency in 2025 with a commitment to helping individuals, families, and businesses find the right protection for their unique needs. Before launching my agency, I spent 13 years with Liberty Mutual Insurance, where I consistently ranked among the company's top insurance professionals nationwide and mentored new agents. As of 2026, we rolled out our sister agency, Cardinal Insurance, where we specialize in helping new home buyers with insurance
In addition to my insurance career, I am the founder of a successful real estate investment company focused on acquisitions, renovations, and asset management. Earlier in my career, I worked with the Department of Defense as an Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Systems Specialist, supporting large-scale strategic programs and cross-functional teams.
Family and community are at the center of everything I do. I've been married to my wife, Jessica, since 2014, and together we are raising two boys, Ben and Christian. Outside of work, I'm an avid runner, soccer player, and youth sports coach, actively coaching soccer, basketball, and baseball.
Christopher Walther is a licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Broker serving clients throughout the states of New Jersey and North Carolina. Chris brings a unique blend of insurance expertise, financial acumen, and entrepreneurial experience to help individuals, families, and business owners protect what matters most.
With more than 15 years of experience in banking, audit, risk management, and consulting, Chris has built a career advising organizations ranging from community financial institutions to multi-billion-dollar banks. Throughout his professional career, he has held leadership positions with respected consulting and advisory firms, where he specialized in internal audit, regulatory compliance, risk management, corporate governance, and strategic consulting. He has worked directly with executive leadership teams, Boards of Directors, and Audit Committees while overseeing complex engagements involving federal banking regulators and financial institutions across the country.
In addition to his corporate and consulting background, Chris is a successful entrepreneur who understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities faced by small business owners. Having owned and operated businesses, including a restaurant, he recognizes the importance of protecting both personal and commercial assets while maintaining cost-effective insurance solutions. This real-world business experience allows him to provide practical guidance and customized coverage recommendations tailored to each client's unique needs.
Today, Chris combines his extensive financial services background with his passion for helping others by providing personalized insurance solutions for homeowners, auto, umbrella, business, and specialty insurance needs. His approach is built on education, transparency, and advocacy—ensuring clients understand their coverage options and receive the protection that best fits their goals and budget.
A graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Chris remains committed to building long-term relationships and serving as a trusted advisor for families and businesses alike.
As your local licensed agent with Independence Insurance, I am committed to helping individuals and families find the right protection for their unique insurance needs. Whether you’re looking for auto, home, or umbrella coverage, I take pride in providing personalized guidance and exceptional service to help you make informed decisions with confidence.
Beyond insurance, I am actively involved in our local community. I volunteer with the Jackson Soccer Club and the Monmouth Ocean County Soccer Association (MOSA), supporting youth development and recreational sports throughout the area. I also teach at Jackson Township High School, where I have the privilege of working with special needs students and helping them achieve their educational and personal goals.
I believe in building strong relationships, serving my community, and helping people protect what matters most. Contact me today to discuss your insurance needs and discover coverage solutions that fit your lifestyle and budget.
Matt joined the Independence team after a 25-year career in law enforcement, specializing in emergency management. He is dedicated to helping others in his community, whether through his involvement with Special Olympics NJ, serving on the board of Jersey Shore Pop Warner, or providing cost-effective insurance solutions for families. Matt is committed to helping you understand your coverage and identify the most suitable insurance company for your needs.
Helping New Jersey families with their Auto, Home, Renters, Umbrella, and Life insurance needs.
Jenna Merrick is a licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Agent serving New Jersey, helping individuals and families protect their homes, vehicles, and everyday assets with simple, personalized coverage.
She holds a bachelor’s and associate degree from Delaware Valley University. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her horse and dogs, fitness, and spending time with family and friends.
Marie is a Licensed CSR, assisting clients with policy inquiries, coverage options, and account management. She is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and helping clients make informed insurance decisions that meet their individual needs. Her background in Property Management, as well as her bachelor’s degree in education, has strengthened her ability to communicate effectively, educate clients, and address a wide range of operational needs.
Luciano Malek is a dedicated insurance quoting specialist at our partner agency, Cardinal Insurance, where he helps clients secure competitive rates on auto and home insurance policies. As an unlicensed insurance agent, he focuses on providing personalized insurance quotes, guiding customers through their options, and ensuring they understand the coverage that best fits their needs and budgets.
With a strong commitment to customer service, he takes pride in simplifying the insurance process and delivering clear, transparent information so clients can make confident decisions about protecting what matters most. His approachable style and attention to detail have helped numerous individuals and families find suitable protection for their vehicles and homes.
Outside of work, he enjoys watching basketball, listening to music and is a movie enthusiast, often unwinding with a great soundtrack or a compelling film in his free time.
He is passionate about building lasting relationships and helping people navigate important insurance decisions with confidence.