EVAN TAYLOR | Age: 34 Senior vice president

NFP Corp.

Charlotte, North Carolina

Evan Taylor spent his last post in a five-year stint as staff operations specialist with the FBI talking to companies about cyber risk: what it is, and what to do and what not to do. He says the experience helped nudge him toward his career in insurance, where since 2014 he has used his training and skills to help companies understand the complexities of cyber risk — among other business risks — and assist them in navigating the ever-changing, often-confusing environment.

What is the biggest challenge of working through the pandemic?

Personally, working from home. As a broker you are paid to generate and maintain relationships, and working from home you are locked in your house. It’s tough because you are generally an outgoing person and you want to be around people. That’s been a change, and obviously it will be a short-term deal.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the business?

Most important, I’ve had two strong mentors who partnered with me and taught me everything about coverage, claims and relationships. Find a mentor and ask that person to take you under their wing.

What should the industry do to attract more young people to work in it?

Designing and fostering mentorship programs that are really thoughtful in the pairing of people. That’s critically important.

What do you know now that you wish you knew at 18?

If you are patient with relationships, goals and what you want in life it is going to pay off in the end. The good things in life come with difficulty. It will take time, but that’s what makes it worth it.

All-time favorite movie?

Without a doubt, “Forrest Gump.”

What is your favorite meal?

Pepperoni pizza or a really good bacon cheeseburger with crispy fries.

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