International Assurance of Tennessee
25 Years In The Business
International Assurance of Tennessee, Inc. was founded by Bob Baisden in 1984. In a market of mergers, acquisitions, and start-ups, IAT is definitely one of a kind. In fact, IAT is often referred to as the oldest MGU in the business. Bringing his background as a group rep with a large conservative mutual company to the stop loss industry, Bob Baisden has made sure that IAT always has the policy holder in mind. IAT’s success has come by staying true to the product, providing unparalleled service, and consistency. IAT may not be the largest, but it is the best in the business.
Why Choose IAT?
To add to the family atmosphere at IAT, the Franklin office consists of two historic homes. The 711 West Main building, the original IAT building, was built in 1914 and is an Aladdin “come cut” home. The original owners purchased the home from a catalog and every piece of the home, down to the door knobs was delivered pre-fabricated, or “come cut”. This building houses both the administration and underwriting departments.
The 123 7th Avenue building was purchased and moved on to the property in 1993. The original portion of this house was built prior to the Civil War. This building houses the claims, information systems, and data entry departments. IAT’s conference room is located on the second floor and has exposed support beams in the ceilings which were cut by a pit saw. Pit saws were made obsolete with the invention of the circular saw after the civil war.
Our Staff
By creating a family atmosphere the staff at IAT is definitely unique. The average length of service is well over 10 years and the knowledge and dedication each employee demonstrates is a reflection of this.
- Bob Baisden – President
- Brandon Baisden – Executive Vice President
- Brenda McAfee – VP & Treasurer
- Beth Archie – Vice President Claims
- Jane Craig – Senior Underwriter
- Kathy Checchin – Senior Underwriter
- Marie Sawyer – Senior Underwriter
- Walt McElroy – National Sales Executive
- Scott Mitchell – Senior Claims Auditor
- Jackie Berry – Claims Auditor
- Kathy Stockman – Administrative Assistant
- Kathy Bell Rieuf – Administrative Assistant
- Barbara Madden – Data Entry
- Jill Hawkins – Data Entry
- Eugenio Cilento – Information Systems
In Loving Memory of Larry Dreaden
The IAT family is deeply saddened by our loss. On July 25th, 2011, Larry died of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. We worked with Larry for over 20 years and he was a dear friend to all of us. We are comforted in knowing Larry lived a full and happy life. He and his wife Linda loved each other deeply and were married for 44 years.
In Honor of Frances Lavonia Allen

Perhaps no one personified the spirit of IAT more than our beloved Frances who worked faithfully for IAT for 16 years. Her commitment to her family, work, and church was noble. On January 10, 2009, Frances' courageous battle against cancer ended. She will be missed.