2022 Break Out Awards NORTHEAST SOUTH MIDWEST WEST
LEANNA PEPPERCORN Casualty adviser
Marsh LLC
San Francisco
Leanna Peppercorn’s experience in the insurance industry began eight years ago with Marsh’s Talent Recruitment Accelerated Careers program, where she worked on one of the first insurance programs for ride-share companies. Being part of creating insurance for the new industry helped shape how she views the role of insurance. Today, she is the lead casualty adviser for complex accounts across multiple industries, handling both complex casualty and affinity programs.
What has been the lasting effect of the pandemic on the way you work?
I don’t think I’d be the only one to say Zoom- and call-fatigue is very real… I’ve seen people respond very positively to clearly written and concise emails versus taking up their time. I’ll continue to use all types of communications going forward, but I’m not going to put pressure on myself to get on people’s calendars and hold every single discussion live. A clear and well-written email is going to be the way of the future as our industry becomes more casual because of the pandemic.
What’s your advice on navigating the current insurance market?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and challenge the status quo if you think you have a good idea — and see it through.
What should the industry do to attract more young people to work in it?
Investing in educating young people on what we do, ideally as far back as middle and high school. Young people see silly personal lines insurance commercials with songs and spokespeople, and that’s not what we do. It really is such an interesting and dynamic industry, and there are so many career paths and opportunities.
What is something about you that would surprise people?
I had traveled to all seven continents by the age of 14.
Favorite song?
“Don’t Stop Believin’’’ by Journey — it’s my go-to karaoke song.
