UP CLOSE: LaMonte Thomas

LaMonte Thomas

LAMONTE THOMAS

NEW JOB TITLE: Plano, Texas-based president and general manager of North Texas and Oklahoma region for CIGNA Corp.

PREVIOUS POSITION: Richmond, Va.-based vp of sales for CIGNA Corp.

LOOKING FORWARD TO: Working with clients, hospitals and physicians, with the focus on improving the health of our customers and their families.

CHALLENGES FACING INDUSTRY: Getting individuals to take a look at how they can get more involved in reducing their health risks and overall health costs.

BEST THING ABOUT A BAD ECONOMY: It calls for clients and customers to put their focus on value and how to effectively utilize resources.

FIRST EXPERIENCE IN JOB MARKET: I was a human resources consultant for CIGNA. That job gave me the time to really listen to the individual. The value of listening was the lesson with that job.

COLLEGE MAJOR: Finance.

ADVICE: Take advantage of every opportunity that is made available.

OUTSIDE THE INDUSTRY, A DREAM JOB: Working for a railroad. I am fascinated with trains and the countryside views you get from a railroad.

HOBBIES: Model railroading.

MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT: Personally, it's my family.

CAN'T-MISS TELEVISION SHOW: “American Pickers.” The history they give behind items they find I see as fascinating. One day on “Jeopardy,” I will be able to answer a lot of questions based on the stuff I learn from watching that show.

FAVORITE MEAL: Anything pasta.

ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON: Hanging out with my family. I spend a lot of time at work during the week, so on the weekends they set the agenda.

EMAIL OR PHONE, AND WHY: Phone. I am a believer that that's the best form of communication. It really allows you to understand the issues and concerns you miss out on over email.