About Us

Our History

When Ian Frank Micklethwaite first launched an independent insurance broker in Sheffield it was founded on the premise that it would always put its clients first.

Over 45 years later, whilst IFM has grown into one of the largest brokers in South Yorkshire, that philosophy of always putting the client first remains at the core of everything it does.

The company's aim has remained to provide the highest possible levels of quality, professionalism and service, to both new and existing clients, a reputation it has rightly earned and is fiercely proud of.

Chartered Status

The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has awarded the prestigious title ‘Chartered Insurance Broker’ to IFM Insurance Brokers Ltd.

Chartered status is awarded exclusively to brokers that satisfy a comprehensive list of criteria. This includes a thorough assessment of its policies, a dedication to continual professional development and a commitment to raise the standards of professional knowledge and ethical practice throughout the business.

As a Chartered Insurance Broker, IFM is committed to the CII’s Code of Ethics, reinforcing the highest standards of professional practice in our business dealings with customers.

Brokerbility

IFM is a member of Brokerbility, a group of similarly ethically and professionally minded brokers. This means IFM has comprehensive access to, and high service levels from, its insurer partners, allowing IFM to give its clients the level of service and protection they need and deserve.

A Message from Mark Barlow

'At IFM we have strong, highly qualified and professional staff all keen to fulfil the company’s philosophy which is to put our customers first at all times. To seek the best and most appropriate cover and ultimately, in a highly commoditised world, provide a personal, first class insurance broking and claims service.

It is our belief that strong, trusting relationships with our clients and insurer providers alike is the foundation to understanding cover requirements, and finding the right solutions.'

"Gripple Ltd is a high tech manufacturing company which has developed award winning products in the fields of construction, agriculture and viticulture. Gripple export over 85% of its production worldwide. Loadhog Ltd is an award winning manufacturing company, reducing waste and providing environmentally friendly solutions to the logistics and supply chain industries. Our group insurance requirements are therefore comprehensive. IFM Insurance Brokers Ltd continue to provide both businesses with an unbroken service in this field. We have been delighted with their professionalism throughout."

Hugh D. Facey, Executive Chairman - Gripple Ltd

"IFM have looked after us for many years, we cannot fault their efficient and attentive service."

Richard Beres, Partner - S.Béres & Son

"Doorpac has worked with a number of insurance providers in the past and found the solutions offered by IFM to be the most competitive, whilst being supported by excellent customer service. IFM continues to be our insurance provider and their understanding of our business has helped us expand over the last three years”."

Michael Jenkinson, Director - Doorpac Ltd

"We use IFM insurance because they seem to have struck a balance between care and capability."

Robert Rusling, Director - Ackroyd & Abbott

"We have received an excellent all round service from IFM Insurance for over 25 years. Their sound advice gives me confidence in recommending their services to others."

Stephen Monfredi, Director - Monty's

"IFM have always provided a thorough and quality insurance service to SPA Landscaping Ltd. We would highly recommend IFM for all commercial insurance."

Alex Anthony, Director - SPA Landscaping Ltd

"We have worked with Jamie Harvey at IFM for 10 years and do not plan to move. Jamie (or one of his colleagues when he is on leave) has always responded to any query we have had almost immediately and has built up a great knowledge of our business needs. We get excellent advice and great insurance products as a result. I would recommend IFM to anyone."

Margaret Bennett - Good Things Foundation

"When choosing an insurance company, we always used to go with the cheapest. As a business we would chop and change almost every year. That was before we met Chris and the IFM team. Whilst a competitive price is an absolute must, service, responsiveness and reliability are three assets that are also very important when choosing a Broker. We have found that IFM deliver in all areas. They are always there for support and go that extra mile to deliver excellent customer service."

Steve Naylor, Managing Director - Doordeals Ltd

"IFM Insurance have been our insurance broker since our inception. They have always had the protection of Sheffield Eagles as their priority and the attention to detail is second to none."

Mark Aston, Director - Sheffield Eagles