2014 40 Under 40 Broker Awards: Joseph D. Schauer
Midwest Region Reprints
Vice president of risk management
Schauer Group Inc.
Age: 32
Although insurance is in Joseph D. Schauer's blood, he didn't just amble into the family business.
Rather, Mr. Schauer worked hard to earn his place in and help redefine the 95-year-old insurance agency Schauer Group Inc. founded by his great-grandfather.
Mr. Schauer said his intent to make a career of risk management crystallized while interning at the Canton, Ohio-based firm while attending John Carroll University near Cleveland.
“I was in school studying to be an attorney, but I ultimately found this part of the business more people-oriented,” he said.
Mr. Schauer began his insurance career as an employee benefits broker in 2004, but moved to be an account executive after obtaining his Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter designation. He later attended Cincinnati Insurance Underwriting School and The Hartford Insurance School of Insurance, and earned his Associate in Risk Management designation in 2010.
Mr. Schauer, vice president and leader of the risk management division at Schauer Group, said ongoing education is essential if commercial insurance brokers are to become true risk management professionals who help clients solve problems.
“Throughout my career, I have never wanted to be viewed as just a salesman,” he said. “I have always sought a way to be a true adviser to my clients.”
Indeed, Bill Nolan, Canton, Ohio-based chief operating officer of Standard Printing Co., praised Mr. Schauer's approach to his work.
“Joe is very detailed and organized and very responsive,” Mr. Nolan said.
Likewise, Todd LePage, Canton-based vice president of Whitacre Engineering Co., said he admires Mr. Schauer's thoroughness and work ethic.
“We had our previous agent for 20 years and decided to give Joe a chance after (the agent in a difference agency) retired,” Mr. LePage said. “W e're very glad we did. He's extremely diligent.”
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