2019 Break Out Awards, South: Justin M. Reese IV
Posted On: Jun. 1, 2019 12:00 AM CST
JUSTIN M. REESE IV
Vice president
and senior risk consultant
Hub International Ltd.
Charleston, South Carolina
Age: 38
Justin M. Reese VI worked on all sides of the insurance spectrum — as a client, broker, insurer and safety manager — before joining Hub International Ltd. five years ago. When he is not flying around the country consulting with clients, you can find him in the gym coaching a spin class or photographing wedge salads.
What is the No. 1 concern in your specialty?
Right now with being in (Hub’s hospitality practice group), it’s workplace violence and active assailants. It’s something I’ve unfortunately had to spend a lot of time on over the last few years.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the business?
Find a really good mentor. Find someone who is seasoned and can provide you with very candid, open and transparent advice. I’ve found that in every position I’ve had, I’ve reached out to my mentors going all the way back to when I was an intern.
What surprised you about the insurance industry?
How broad the exposures were and, at the time, how risk-averse some companies were. I was surprised at how people in the industry were afraid to go after some of the hairier risks. With the right controls, you can write everything.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that when I’m not at work, I’m also a group fitness instructor. I teach body pump classes, and I’m also a spin instructor.
What is your favorite meal?
I’m a traditional guy. I love a New York strip and creamed spinach, but it has to be started with a wedge salad. I love them so much that I have an Instagram page that is only wedge salads. Hundreds of photos of wedge salads from all over. If there’s one on the menu, I will eat it.