Associated Financial Group names Bret A. McKitrick HR Consultant

McKitrick's municipality and school district experience increases Associated Financial Group's public sector abilities

MILWAUKEE - February 28, 2012 - Associated Financial Group announced today that Bret A. McKitrick has been named HR Consultant. Based in Waukesha, McKitrick is the fifth member of AFG's HR Solutions Team. In his role, he will work with HR professionals to ensure they have a clear understanding of the rules governing human resources and employee benefits. He will assist clients in maintaining compliance of health and wellness benefit packages while developing strategies for change under Health Care Reform laws. McKitrick will also serve as a valuable resource for public-sector clients, enhancing a client's relationship with union and non-union employees, as well as recommending cost-effective OPEB funding strategies.

McKitrick brings more than 10 years of legal experience to Associated Financial Group. Most recently, he practiced as an Attorney at Simandl & Prentice, S.C., where he represented private and public-sector employers on all aspects of employee benefits and human resources law. Before that, McKitrick served as General Counsel and Director of Compliance at SASI, where he was responsible for leading the compliance department for a national third-party administrator of employee benefit plans.

"Associated Financial Group prides itself on hiring top talent who truly develop strategic partnerships with our clients," said Mickey Webb, Chief Operating Officer, Associated Financial Group. "Bret is exceptionally skilled, has the ability to bring clarity to complex employment laws and regulations, and has a strong focus on serving our clients. We are excited to have him join our team."

McKitrick holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Kentucky and a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh, School of Law. McKitrick serves on the Board of Directors for Operation Dream in Milwaukee, WI and is an active bar member in Wisconsin and West Virginia. He is also a frequent speaker in the following areas: COBRA, ERISA, FMLA, Health Care Reform, HIPAA, 401(k)/403(b) compliance, taxation of benefits, wage and hour rules and employee classifications.

Associated Financial Group is part of Associated Banc-Corp, headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., a diversified bank holding company with total assets of $22 billion. Associated Financial Group offers a broad range of employee benefits, human resources consulting, risk management and business and personal insurance services. More information about Associated Financial Group is available at www.associatedfinancialgroup.com.

Contact: Nicole Koremenos
Public Relations Specialist
414-278-1832 PHONE
414-254-2270 CELL
Nicole.Koremenos@AssociatedBank.com