About Hako Risk & Insurance

Who We Are

Our passion for the work we do and the peace of mind we provide to our clients are what drives us at Hako Risk & Insurance in Phoenix. Whether we are working with a contractor on a new project, evaluating a firm’s group benefits plan, or covering the personal insurance of an individual, we put together programs and strategies that help address exposures, mitigate losses, and safeguard assets.

Your Insurance Partner

Throughout our more than 35 years in the industry, clients throughout the western United States have trusted the folks behind Hako Risk & Insurance with their commercial insurance and risk management programs, knowing that our goal is to provide comprehensive business insurance solutions designed for today and tomorrow’s risks. No matter how straightforward or complex your business operation, our staff will deliver solutions to protect you with superior products and responsive service customized to your specific needs. We take the time to truly understand your business and the risks that can upend an operation without the right partner in your corner.

Individuals and families also know they can rely on us to safeguard their loved ones and all the hard work they’ve put into their wealth accumulation.

Controlling Risk

In addition to providing you with tailored insurance products, our staff will also work with you to help minimize potential losses with risk assessment, loss control, claims management, and other consulting services. Our goal is to help improve your bottom line and move your business forward.

Hako Risk & Insurance was founded by Steve Hay and Michael Kohler, long‐time personal friends, combining their respective professional careers into a boutique‐style independent agency.

Steve and Mike had become part of a commercial team at a multi‐national insurance broker after their former agency was acquired. Large national insurance agencies are often forced to operate in a more sales‐centric fashion, and direct customer contact and relationships suffer. That environment is what prompted their decision to open their own shop and return to a balanced work/life environment where they and their loyal clients could flourish.

Steve Hay (Co‐Owner, CEO)

Steve Hay has more than 40 years in the insurance industry helping clients navigate an ever changing business climate. As a long‐time Phoenix, Arizona resident, Steve has a pulse on current trends and understands how best to protect your business, whether local or multi‐state.

His background as an owner, partner, and commercial producer gives him a wide range of experience and expertise to bring clarity to your specific insurance and risk management requirements. As a result he has a well‐earned reputation as one who knows his industry and is highly respected in the insurance community.

Steve and his wife, Donna, love spending their free time together. As often as possible they are in Colorado, where their life together began.

Mike Kohler (co‐owner, President)

Mike Kohler joined Steve Hay more than 20 years ago. During that time he has built a reputation for tackling challenging risks while navigating the minefield of complex coverage issues and providing value balanced management options.

His expertise in various segments of the market, such as production housing contractors, as well as his ability to deliver unique solutions has made Mike a trusted partner for his many long‐time clients. He has an intimate understanding of the complexities of construction and other challenging market sectors and knows how to protect you and your business long‐term.

Mike is an avid fly fisherman, and with his wife, Racy, spend their summers camping and enjoying the outdoors in their native NW Montana.