Holmes Murphy & Associates Inc. has been named the 22nd-largest independent risk management and insurance brokerage firm in the United States, up from its 24th standing in 2009. The rankings are conducted annually by Business Insurance magazine, based on brokerage revenues.

“No matter the economic climate, a key mission of Holmes Murphy & Associates has always been to ensure our continued growth and stability for our clients and employees,” said Jim Swift, chairman and CEO, in a press release. “Rising to the rank of 22nd largest insurance brokerage is truly a testament to the seasoned professionals who continue to drive our business and our clients’ businesses forward into the future.”

In the past 18 years, the West Des Moines-based brokerage firm has steadily climbed in the Business Insurance rankings, beginning with a ranking of 71st in 1992. Last fall, the magazine ranked Holmes Murphy the ninth-largest privately owned broker in the United States. That ranking encompasses brokerage firms not owned by banks or private equity firms.

The company employs approximately 500 people. In addition to West Des Moines, it has offices in Cedar Rapids and Davenport; Madison,Wis.; Omaha, Neb.; Peoria, Ill.; Sioux Falls, S.D.; Dallas, Texas; Overland Park, Kan.; Denver; Oklahoma City; Scottsdale, Ariz.; and St. Louis.