LOS ANGELES-BASED SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, FAMILY OFFICE (WEST REGION), PERSONAL LINES PRACTICE
Willis North America Inc.
PREVIOUS POSITION: Los Angeles-based senior vice president and national client executive for private client services with Marsh Inc.
GOALS FOR NEW POSITION: To empower and mentor those around me and to share my many years of knowledge with the up-and-coming stars.
CHALLENGES FACING INDUSTRY: This industry brings unsavory competition to the table, when the truth is that all professionals should focus on their strengths, learn from each other and simply be respectful. This is a wonderful business to be in, and if you do a great job and focus on the clients, business will come to you.
INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: It gets better every year with more creative and innovative ideas in the marketplace.
FIRST INDUSTRY JOB: My first job was a part-time job as a mail and file clerk for a small insurance agency in South Carolina. I started to take classes, secured my broker's license, became a client representative and eventually became the department manager.
WHAT SURPRISED ME: That I would find the insurance business interesting and that I would do it for my entire working life.
ADVICE: Don't take your current situation for granted, as it can all be pulled out from under you in a split second.
HOBBIES: Shop, shop, shop.
WHEN I RETIRE: Travel and do volunteering where needed.
CAN'T-MISS TELEVISION SHOW: “American Idol,” “The Voice” and “Dancing with the Stars.” Anything to do with music and dancing makes me smile and sets the tone for my day.