UP CLOSE: Reed T. VanOrsdel

Reed T. VanOrsdel

BETHESDA, MARYLAND-BASED VICE PRESIDENT OF THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS GROUP

Alliant Insurance Services Inc.

PREVIOUS POSITION: Bethesda-based benefits consultant at Corporate Synergies Group L.L.C.

LOOKING FORWARD TO: Having new, more powerful and effective resources to make an impact on clients' needs and deliver on their expectations.

GOALS FOR NEW POSITION: To grow the presence of the Alliant brand here in the Washington, D.C., market, and by providing unmatched service and capabilities for our clients.

CHALLENGES FACING INDUSTRY: Controlling cost and delivering quality plans is the No. 1 challenge for every employer when it comes to health care. Along with cost, educating the workforce is nearly as important and as challenging. Employees are busy doing their jobs, on the road, working from home, etc., on a daily basis, so giving them access to answers about their benefit plans is an invaluable resource.

INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: I think the future is bright. I believe that the right consultants and carrier relationships are bringing sustainable solutions to employers and employees by delivering quality of care with predictable costs.

FIRST INDUSTRY JOB: Group representative with Prudential Insurance Co. of America.

ADVICE: Outwork your competition and bring the right people to the table. Be a good listener so you can understand each client's challenges. No two clients are alike.

OUTSIDE THE INDUSTRY, A DREAM JOB: Playing professional baseball.

HOBBIES: A rare date night with my wife, golf, playing music or going to concerts.

THING MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT ME: I have six children.

FAVORITE MEAL: Maryland blue crabs.

THOUGHTS ON SMARTPHONES: I'm scared one day they might be smarter than me.