Agency Principals

Gerald E. Ludwig, Jr., President

Gerald "Jerry" Ludwig was just 23 years old when he followed the footsteps of his father, Gerald Ludwig, Sr., and his godfather, Charles Walpole. After pursuing a degree in Risk Management and Insurance from Florida State University, Jerry joined the Ludwig-Walpole team and started a successful career in insurance. Since 1966, Jerry has been part of the fabric of Sarasota’s main street business environment, and was elected by his peers as a past president of the Sarasota Association of Independent Insurance Agents, member of The Sarasota Jaycees and currently a member of the Sarasota "100" Club. Jerry enjoys the personal aspects of the business—meeting and helping others—and is an approachable man whose handshake and word are as good as a written contract.

Sarasota has been home to the Ludwig family for generations, and Jerry has continued the legacy by raising his family here. Through his leadership, the agency has continued to offer the community a company founded on superior service, competitive pricing, a broad choice of protection, and effective advocacy for clients. Jerry's father taught him the values of integrity, service, and customer satisfaction—values that he has now passed on to sons Gerald III and Robert.

Robert S. Ludwig, Vice President

Spend five minutes with Robert Ludwig, and chances are you'll be smiling. Stick around five more and you'll be amazed at his knowledge of the insurance industry. Robert loves the business and truly enjoys people, creating a winning combination for his clients. His sense of humor shines through every conversation, but so does his passion for helping businesses and individuals protect their assets with coverage that works when it is supposed to.

Robert holds a degree Risk Management and Insurance from Florida State University. He began his career as a claims adjuster for USF&G and later worked for Johns Eastern Company. Joining the family business was a natural fit, and since 1998 Robert has delivered expertise and solid commitment to Ludwig-Walpole clientele as he handles operations, sales, and customer service.

Robert's resume includes a history of serving as a past board member of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce; small business council chair, and ethics committee chair. He has served as an active leader in the Florida Association of Insurance Agents (FAIA), and is a graduate of the inaugural class of the Florida's Future Insurance Leaders program. He was elected to FAIA's Board of Directors where he continues to serve. Robert and the Ludwig-Walpole Company are annual sponsors of the Chamber’s Young Professional Group (YPG) and of the Young Business of the Year Award.

When he's not working, Robert can be found spending time with his wife Melanie and their two children. Robert and Melanie are both natives of Sarasota, with roots deep into the local community.

Gerald E. Ludwig, III

The friendly and personable Gerald E. Ludwig, III goes by the name of "Tres", a nickname born of being named the third Gerald E. Ludwig. True to the family's heritage, Tres has been immersed in the insurance industry since starting his career, first gaining Workman's Compensation experience with Johns Eastern Company. Since 2001, he has been a jack-of-all-trades at Ludwig Walpole, aiding operations in a behind-the-scenes support role. As a licensed customer service representative, Tres' knowledge and experience offer a well-rounded compliment to the Ludwig-Walpole team. His ongoing support for the community continues the legacy established by his grandfather and father.

Tres' love for the outdoors and for the community formed the backdrop as he serves as a founding member and volunteer of the Sarasota Sportsman Association. The mission of this not-for-profit organization is to educate youth regarding outdoor activities, laws, sportsmanship, and safe practices while promoting the use, conservation, and management of local natural resources. Along with his wife, Shelly, he enjoys a strong connection with the community and with extended family in the area.