2020 Break Out Awards NORTHEAST SOUTH MIDWEST WEST
FRANNIE EPPS Senior vice president, senior casualty adviser
Marsh LLC
Chicago
In a fortunate accident, Frannie Epps’ college track schedule at Illinois State University led her to cancel some planned interviews for investment banking internships. She pivoted to insurance, interning with Marsh LLC and accepting a full-time position in the brokerage’s training program after graduation. She has been with Marsh ever since.
What is the biggest challenge of working through the pandemic?
Aside from not being able to go to Starbucks every day and see my colleagues? COVID is a rapidly evolving topic that presents a wide range of issues. Staying on top of things … and bringing that knowledge to our clients in a succinct and useful manner has been the No. 1 challenge.
What should the industry do to attract more young people to work in it?
I think we need to do a better job of educating younger people on the vast opportunities that exist within the industry. When I recruit on campus, people broadly associate the insurance industry with being a personal insurance agent. That’s definitely a career path, but there is so much more beyond that.
What do you know now that you wish you knew at 18?
I wish I would have known how great it was to have very little responsibility. I didn’t realize how fortunate I was to have very little to worry about then.
What is something about you that would surprise people?
I really enjoy doing home-improvement projects. I recently remodeled my kitchen with the assistance of my parents, and I’m currently building patio furniture and planter boxes for my rooftop. I’m very good at painting. If you ever need some painting assistance, I’m your person to call, and I don’t charge.
What is your favorite meal?
I would probably say tacos and margaritas, but if you asked my friends, they would say Cheez-Its and Bud Light Lime.
