<Tr> <Th> Occupation </Th> <Td> Insurance salesperson </Td> </Tr> <Tr> <Th> Nationality </Th> <Td> American </Td> </Tr> <P> Flo is a fictional salesperson character appearing in more than 100 commercials for Progressive Corporation, beginning in 2008 . Portrayed by actress and comedian Stephanie Courtney, the character has developed a fan base on social networks and has become an iconic advertising mascot . </P> <P> The character debuted in 2008 through several television commercials and has since appeared in radio and print advertisements and web banners . "Flo", an upbeat store employee for Progressive Corporation, was created by the Boston - based agency Arnold Worldwide, specifically copywriter John Park and art director Steve Reepmeyer . Some have noticed that FLO has some resemblance in style and appearance to Chrissy Hynde of the Pretenders, especially when she sings, "Stand by You" - one of Chrissy's songs . </P>

Who is the woman who does the progressive commercials