American International Group Inc. (AIG) held a ribbon cutting and grand opening of its expansion in Olathe on Sept. 8, which will bring 300 new jobs to Kansas by the end of 2015. Gov. Sam Brownback and AIG President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Hancock joined officials from AIG, the University of Kansas (KU) and the city of Olathe at the ribbon cutting.
“By expanding its operations in Olathe and creating hundreds of new jobs in our state, AIG is demonstrating that the Kansas business environment is one of the best in the country,” said Gov. Brownback. “Our state’s pro-growth policies and outstanding workforce make it an ideal place to invest and grow a business.”
“We share our happiness on this day with Olathe,” said Hancock. “AIG is committed to adding 300 new jobs in Olathe by end of 2015, recognizing the crucial role that the people in our operations here play in the broader success of AIG. The expansion of this facility reaffirms our commitment to expand in the greater Kansas City area and to serving our customers around the world with excellence.”
AIG’s expanded facility at17300 West 119th Street will provide claims and policy servicing operations in the U.S. and around the globe. The company currently employs more than 600 workers at its offices in Olathe.
AIG’s expansion in Olathe is supported by its work with KU, which includes a strong research partnership. The research partnership originated in the School of Business and has expanded through a university wide Master Research Agreement. In addition, AIG has partnered with the School of Business to provide leadership training to AIG’s managers. The collaboration also has provided students, faculty and staff with opportunities to learn valuable information from AIG executives. Furthermore, as a hiring partner, AIG provides new career opportunities for the university’s students and alumni.
“KU has a mission to educate leaders, build healthy communities, and make discoveries that change the world,” said KU Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little. “This relationship with AIG enables us to advance each aspect of that mission and find new ways to grow the economy, create jobs and bring exciting new products and services to the market. In addition, this comprehensive partnership with AIG – which includes a master research agreement, leadership training, and opportunities for our students – is a model for how we want to partner with companies in the future.”
“AIG’s decision illustrates a clear fact. Olathe is not only the leading destination for families moving to this region, but a leading destination for exceptional businesses seeking a dynamic business climate and a workforce second-to-none,” Olathe Mayor Michael Copeland said.
About AIG
American International Group Inc. (AIG) is a leading international insurance organization serving customers in more than 130 countries. AIG companies serve commercial, institutional and individual customers through an extensive worldwide property-casualty network. In addition, AIG companies are leading providers of life insurance and retirement services in the United States. AIG common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the Tokyo Stock Exchange.