What is the biggest misconception about the industry?
That all insurance brokers are the same and all we bring to the table is a low bid. We believe this is antiquated thinking. Long term risk management strategies including non insurance measures are proven methods to financial improvement. A culture of safety and a well implemented risk program will lead to a lower Experience Modification, and better job execution. We want to develop successful strategies that enhance the growth goals of our clients. We often incorporate levers available to construction that not all brokers are aware of that drive improved results.
What is your biggest current challenge at work?
COVID -19.
What keeps you up at night?
Discovering what else it is we can do for our clients that will help them run their business more profitably and efficiently. How do we adapt to changing conditions in the Construction market. This is a cyclical business and we want to find ways to properly advise our clients on strategies to take advantage of good times and protect in difficult ones.
What project is your company most proud of?
Our clients’ projects become ours, and a few do stand out to us. On the Property & Casualty side of the house, we successfully worked with a large contractor on a comprehensive plan to fix a debit EMR. This was creating a financial burden and impacting their ability to bid competitively on certain jobs. We involved our Risk & Claims Management Team and within two years the positive results were evident. The EMR reduced, insurance costs went down and the overall safety culture was changing. From the Surety side of the house, we are proud to be part of the client’s advisory team. Recently we collaborated with a client’s CPA and management team to develop a strategy that made sense to the surety. The program was doubled in size and the company is executing the work now positioning himself for additional growth.
How does your ABC membership help your company?
ABC gives us the opportunity to participate in meetings and committees with respected well managed construction firms. We are able to gain knowledge and better understand how we can help our clients manage their Insurance, Benefits and Surety & Risk Management programs. We love the opportunities to closely engage with thought leaders and business owners.
What do you look forward to each day?
Spending time with my friends & family and dogs.
What are you like to work for?
The best! What else would I say. Seriously, I believe through my career I have been fair and valued the opinions and contributions of those that work for me. You can't be great without a great team surrounding you. I am a strong believer in developing a great company culture.
What is your favorite metro Washington hangout/restaurant?
So many to choose from, but still have had some of my best times at CAPS Games.
Who would you trade places with for a day?
Garth Brooks
What do you do for fun?
I love to be outdoors. Golf, Tennis, Soccer, Wake Surfng or just a few adult beverages with friends.
What business/career advice do you wish you had when you began?
Never stop educating yourself on your area of expertise. I have learned over many years to try to put myself in the shoes of who I work for and with.
What book are you currently reading?
Think Like Rocket Scientist - Ozan Varol - Provides some strategies that anyone can employ in work or life in general.
Would you like to add any other comments?
Super proud to be an ABC member and to have made so many great friends because of this organization!