Why did you join Integro?
Insurance is a people business, period. Thus, it is my number one priority to work among a team of passionate, innovative and technical people - supported by a firm that understands the value and spirit of its employees. I wanted to work with people that motivate me to challenge myself on a daily basis. Integro is filled with those kind of people, and is why I came to work here. The expectations are high, and I like it that way. I have been introduced to such a creative and proactive approach to insurance brokerage. It's refreshing to know that I'm representing a firm that doesn't rest on its laurels.
Clients often conjure up their own definition of service, so my goal is to be a tailor-made extension of their risk management department. I am committed to top-caliber client service in a variety of roles. On any given day I might be a resource, strategist, educator, ghost-writer, record keeper, negotiator, "what if" scenario hotline, and friend, among others. I am prone to constant movement in all of these roles and enjoy brainstorming ways to push the envelope of current market standards and develop something new.
My favorite assignments often turn out to be the challenging ones. I enjoy working with complex, multinational risk management clients with a wealth of puzzles to solve, ranging from effectively negotiating tough renewals in the midst of a significant claim negotiation (or three!); building a complex E&O placement with bespoke manuscript wording to align with a client's unique service platform; to collaborating and designing a one-of-a-kind blended risk transfer structure modeled for a client's specific needs and budget. I like to get my hands dirty and emerge from the scrap with an end product that exceeds my clients' expectations. I enjoy opportunities to prove that my clients are market leaders, not followers.
I learned by observation, example and feedback that the most mutually-beneficial meeting is one in which a client talks far more than the broker. Lately, I've tried to keep this in mind and pay special attention to the flow of conversation as a primary contributing factor for a successful meeting, allowing its momentum to have a dynamic impact on the focus and outcome of our dialogue. This approach constructs layers of dimension that extend beyond a typical presentation, with an emphasis on thoughtful questions that foster open, interactive discussion.
I spend evenings enjoying the Chicago food and wine scene more often than I'd like to admit. One of these days, I will learn to cook. For now, I am a newlywed with brand new pots and pans used only for canned soup. Throughout the year, I enjoy travel, skiing, outdoor music festivals and golf (as long as I don't have to keep score).