Vishy Padmanabhan

PREVIOUS POSITION: Charlotte, North Carolina-based executive, product transformation and change, Wells Fargo

OUTLOOK FOR THE INDUSTRY: This industry is as important as it has ever been. With rising costs and uncertainties, insurance will continue to be a critical aspect of people’s lives. Reducing costs and risk for our customers and providing exceptional customer service will always be the north star for us. As AI and emerging technology continue to rapidly reshape all industries, expectations from our customers are changing quickly. However, the focus isn’t just on speed and efficiency, it’s also on accuracy and empathetic engagement.

GOALS FOR YOUR NEW POSITION: My main objective is to help Sedgwick define and drive strategic initiatives that help set up our customers and colleagues for success. Ultimately, it comes down to ensuring that as the company continues to grow and evolve, our people have the best tools, guidance and support they need to thrive.

CHALLENGES FACING THE INDUSTRY: Managing complex claims, workforce changes and regulatory demands while adopting AI and digital tools is an ever-present challenge. The key is using technology to enhance, not replace, the expertise and empathy that defines great claims service.

FIRST EXPERIENCE: I spent time meeting clients face-to-face at a recent client conference to understand the strategic priorities they were focused on every day. Those conversations gave me a firsthand view of their challenges and goals, and as a result have helped shape how I approach my role.

ADVICE FOR A NEWCOMER: My advice to any new faces on the job is simple: listen, learn, look for small ways to contribute, but trust your intuition and business instinct. Don’t underestimate what you can do to help the company.

DREAM JOB: I’ve always been passionate about cricket, so if I weren’t in this industry, I’d love to be a sideline reporter or a blogger for the game.

LOOKING FORWARD TO: I’m most excited about learning about this industry, about what matters to our customers and adding value.

COLLEGE MAJOR: I have an undergraduate degree in engineering, and an MBA in strategy and general management.

FAVORITE MEAL: I’m not sure about full meal, but I do have a soft spot for crunchy snacks. There’s something satisfying about that texture and flavor combination that just never gets old.

FAVORITE BOOK: I read and listen to audiobooks and podcasts quite a bit, but one I recently enjoyed was “Same as Ever,” by Morgan Housel.

HOBBIES: I enjoy listening to music, everything from 80s rock to K-pop, as well as diving into podcasts on a wide range of topics (Economist, Journal and Acquired are some of my favorites). I also love reading as I mentioned, and I like exploring books across genres (biographies, sports, business).

FAVORITE TV SHOW: “Seinfeld,” absolutely. It’s timeless, endlessly rewatchable and always makes me laugh. I recently watched K-pop demon hunters, which was a very good one.

ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON: Reading, listening to podcasts or music while doing chores and enjoying nature with my family.

Vishy Padmanabhan