UP CLOSE: Mark Montgomery

New job title: Director of the Palm Beach, Fla., office of Frank Crystal & Co.

Previous position: Vp of Marsh's private client services division. I ran the new-business development practice for the Palm Beach, Fla., market.

Reason for the switch: Frank Crystal's business model offers me the resources to more effectively meet the entire risk management needs of my clients. Furthermore, because (the company is) privately held and family owned, they can react more nimbly and decisively to our clients' complex and unpredictable concerns and interests. Frank Crystal offers a highly integrated approach that involves the expertise of all of their divisions and senior management. Lastly, the company is strongly committed to the private client services practice, which they have developed into an integral component of the company's overall success and growth plans.

Vital statistics: I have a B.A. in marketing and an MBA from Stetson University in Deland, Fla. Before Marsh, I was a new business producer for a State Farm insurance agent.

Goals for new position: To market the resources and expertise of the company to further its mission of delivering industry-leading services to our clients. I want to take the success that I have achieved in Palm Beach County to other strategic locations around the state to help Frank Crystal be recognized as a leading resource in risk management services. I was recognized as the single top producing sales professional for Marsh's Private Client Services practice in the country for the past two years, and I plan on utilizing my strengths that helped me achieve that position to further Frank Crystal's mission.

First time in the job market: See above. I'm kind of an old-school company guy and have only worked for two companies since college.

Top advice: Care. Sincerely care about others' needs. Listen, be genuine and transparent, and strive to meet others' needs. Be resolute in your pursuit to uncover and meet your clients' needs.

Outside the industry, a dream job: To operate an outdoor adventure company in western North Carolina leading small groups on team-building cycling and hiking excursions.