LARRY WILLIAMS | Age: 34 Head of small business

USAA

Philadelphia

Larry Williams always wanted to be a businessman and joined the insurance sector on the financial side, working on acquisition integrations at Chubb. Wanting a more “front of house” role, he joined the insurer’s accident and health group before leading its North American digital business for small commercial. In 2019, he moved to USAA to head its small commercial business, which is distributed digitally.

 

What’s a lasting effect of the pandemic on the way you work?

The biggest effect for me personally has been flexibility and having flexibility for the team, understanding that at the end of the day we’re all human and we’re trying to find that balance of our work and personal life.

 

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

I am struck as to why more young people don’t join insurance. It’s a product that’s been around since the days of insuring ships going across the seas and frankly is an exciting industry that pays well, and through economic recessions has survived time over time again. The digital transformation that we’re going through is what’s going to become an attraction for younger people to join our industry.

 

What is something about you that would surprise people?

I’m a very outgoing person and spend a lot of time out in the field, but the thing that actually charges me is getting to come home at the end of the day and just spend time with a good book.

 

Favorite hobby or pastime?

I’m a car nut. Whether it’s an older classic car, with the smell and sound of that engine running, or a newer exotic car. I have a 1975 Corvette that my mom bought when she turned 18 and I bought it off her five years ago, so it’s a fun family heirloom.

 

Favorite song?

“Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” by Jet.