LACY REX | Age: 38 Vice president, cyber strategic leader

Oswald Cos.

Cincinnati

Lacy Rex “fell into” the insurance business after graduating with a history degree from Indiana University, when a friend recommended her for a job in the industry. The research skills she learned in college have come in handy, though, helping her get to the root of fact patterns in challenging cyber situations. In her spare time, Ms. Rex likes to garden, knit and spend time outside with her two German Shepherds and three-pawed Havanese rescue dog.

What’s your advice on navigating the current insurance market?

The cyber liability space is so dynamic. It’s honestly getting really, really difficult.

I’m reading a lot of resources around the technical side and staying current on what’s going on. We’re having a lot of conversations with clients to get them to understand, “These are the basic things you need to have in place” — really shining a light on the inadequacies of cyber security.

How will your work change going forward?

It’s going to be more integrated — technology and in-person experiences. The key is flexibility and being able to really make the experience personal for each client.

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

We need to focus more on the niche coverages. Like executive risk and how that really would pair well with certain college degrees and finance. And cyber liability, if you have a technical background or really just an interest. Focusing on areas that are not auto insurance, home insurance, and that perception of what insurance is.

What’s one habit or hobby that you adopted during the pandemic?

Meditation. Generally, when I’m feeling like I need to be a little more centered, especially when things are chaotic, taking a couple of minutes really helps with reflection. Meditation and jazz.

What is your favorite meal?

Tacos and margaritas.