2017 Break Out Awards, West: Eric K. Brown
Posted On: Jun. 5, 2017 12:00 AM CST
ERIC K. BROWN
Senior vice president, unit manager
Lockton Cos. L.L.C.
Irvine, California
Age: 35
Eric K. Brown joined Lockton Cos. L.L.C. straight out of college after hearing about the brokerage’s account manager trainee program through a family friend. In his 12 years at the firm, he has worked mainly on residential home building accounts, although he also works on some professional liability accounts. He has strong contacts in the London market, where much of his business is placed, and travels to the United Kingdom, often with clients, several times a year.
Top industry concern
One of the things is the emphasis on technological capabilities and the impact it will have on customer-facing jobs. You hear about analytics and programs that people are using to come up with quotes, and while I think that is good as a reference point, if you rely on it too much, it takes away some of the human element.
Best-kept secret about insurance
It’s far from boring. Lots of people think it’s boring, but you can learn something new every day. Also, it’s a very financially rewarding business.
Next big thing in insurance
Analytics and data and how it’s modeled, which will be very important in spotting measurable customer expectations and creating a clearer picture of what their peers are doing.
How do you unwind?
The easiest way to take my mind off work is talking to friends and family about their day. I find when I listen to them intently it helps me remove myself from my day.
Hobbies and interests
I’m a foodie. I love to try new restaurants. Also, I have a passion for fashion. Since I travel to Europe often, I’m always finding new trends that don’t come to the U.S. until years later.