2021 Break Out Awards NORTHEAST SOUTH MIDWEST WEST
ROB QUAST Director of insurance and claims
The Kroger Co.
Cincinnati
Certified public accountant Rob Quast joined The Kroger Co. seven years ago, starting in the finance department before moving into his current role. As the risk management leader for the grocer, he has worked to ensure the needs of its large essential workforce are being met during the COVID-19 pandemic, including rolling out more telemedicine offerings and purchasing personal protective equipment to keep employees safe and healthy.
What’s your top tip for working remotely?
Really trying to make things personal again. Spending time with team members, brokers, carrier partners — just making sure we’re spending time working through issues and connecting on a personal level.
How will your work change going forward?
For most people virtual is going to be a new component of how we work. Everyone is going to have to embrace some elements of work from home. It will be interesting transitioning back into the office and making sure everyone has the right balance.
What’s one habit or hobby you adopted during the pandemic?
It’s a hobby I had before — golf. It has been one of the only ways I can continue to get physical activity. I have dramatically increased my volume of golf this year — rounds were up, handicap was down.
All-time favorite movie?
“Wedding Crashers.” I like movies where I can totally zone out. I don’t want to be overly engaged; I just want to relax, laugh a little bit and chill out.
What is your favorite meal?
I guess I’m kind of traditional. I like just a nice steak and a glass of red wine. I love going to a steakhouse or I don’t mind cooking up one at home. On a Sunday night, get the steak out, marinate it, get a glass of wine — that’s my happy place.
