Our Team

Maxwell Merhar

Max Merhar serves as Vice President of The Merhar Agency, continuing a proud legacy as a third-generation insurance professional. With a deep commitment to client service and financial protection, Max upholds the agency’s longstanding tradition of integrity, reliability, and personalized care.

A native of Willoughby, Ohio, Max graduated from Willoughby South High School in 2006 and went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree from Kent State University. During his time at Kent, he was an active member of the Zeta Lambda Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity, where he held the role of Risk Manager—an early reflection of his dedication to responsibility and leadership. While still in college, Max obtained his Property & Casualty and Life & Health insurance licenses, laying the groundwork for his career in the insurance industry.

Max is married to his college sweetheart, Leah, and together they are raising three children. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Max enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, engaging in activities such as hiking, fishing, golfing, and riding ATV's.

Marykay Magri

Marykay Magri is a 32 year veteran in the insurance industry. Marykay was licensed in 1993 and she served as Office Manager for the Bryan Noda Agency from 1996 to the present. In June of 2018 the Noda Agency merged with and is now a satellite office of the Merhar Agency.

The best part of Marykay’s job is working with so many wonderful people, both staff and clients. Making the insurance buying experience easier and friendlier is a daily goal, along with providing outstanding customer service.

When Marykay is not being an insurance agent she loves spending time with family and friends, and “glamping” in her RV. She is looking forward to being a first time Grandma later this year.

Gillian Derus

Gillian Derus joined the Merhar Agency in July 2025 after earning her Property and Casualty license in 2022. She enjoys helping clients with their insurance needs, supporting her coworkers, and brightening people’s day along the way.

Gillian grew up in Madison, Ohio, and was part of the CCP program in high school, graduating with a dual degree in Art and Science from Lakeland Community College. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and has a passion for vintage collecting and thrifting—giving old things a new life.

Emma Tomaselli

Emma Tomaselli serves as the receptionist at the Merhar Agency, where she provides a warm, professional first point of contact for clients. In this role, she supports the agency’s daily operations by ensuring an organized, welcoming environment and assisting clients with efficiency and care.

As she begins her career in the insurance industry, Emma is actively pursuing her Property and Casualty license. Her commitment to learning, combined with her strong attention to detail and client‑focused mindset, makes her a valuable addition to the team.

Outside the office, Emma enjoys going to the movies with her long‑term partner, Robbie, spending time with family and pets, reading fantasy novels, and attending conventions. She looks forward to advancing her insurance career and contributing to the Merhar Agency’s continued growth and service excellence.