Randy Jouben is the Chief of Risk Management in Fairfax County, one of the largest counties in the United States. He shares the lessons he has learned from his varied experiences from non-profit and for-profit to the public sector. He underscores the importance of embracing technology and training employees in AI engagement in order to manage risks instead of being blind to them, shares the benefits of his CPCU designation, and highlights the importance of continued learning at every stage of a successful career. Key Takeaways: ● Randy's work with Fairfax County from criminal and fire to helping the homeless. ● Randy's literal fall into an insurance career. ● Lessons learned from the non-profit sector. ● Five Guys from the kitchen to the EBITDA bottom line. ● The value of partnering together during the bad years. ● Insights into insurance in municipalities. ● Risk financing in the public sector. ● Legal system abuse and the need to reform. ● Ensuring proper education about utilizing AI. ● Randy's flexible advice to his early career self. Mentioned in This Episode: Randy Jouben Tweetables: "When you realize how much you can help an organization help their mission, it's more fulfilling than a paycheck." "If you can partner together in the bad times, it makes the good times so much better for everyone else." "In municipalities, your neighbor is your boss in one sense or another." "Just because you've had your job in the industry for 30 years, doesn't mean you stop learning." "You need to embrace technology and help employees learn it and engage with it so you can manage the risk instead of being blind to the risk. You don't work in risk management and not take risks."
Courtney Davis is the Executive Vice President and Global Education Practice Leader at HUB International. Courtney was a guest on the podcast back in 2022 and has returned for a follow-up interview at the RIMS 2025 Conference in Chicago. She reflects on changes in her career, what it means to effectively educate and engage across a network, and how she is working to be an agent for change and greater diversity at every level in the insurance industry. Key Takeaways: ● Courtney's journey from the University of Chicago to HUB International. ● The conversations and possibilities that attracted Courtney to her present role. ● HUB's growing footprint in the insurance industry. ● The biggest surprises in Courtney's shift from risk management to brokerage. ● Educating and engaging an entire network. ● Supporting greater diversity at every level in the insurance industry. ● Effective strategies for attracting new talent. ● What it takes to become a change agent. Mentioned in This Episode: Courtney C. Davis HUB International Tweetables: "As much as an opportunity may be great, it's who you work with that will make you successful." "Sometimes you have to be the change agent yourself." "Don't stop until you see the change that you want." "Being truly intentional to support the next level of talent is what we have to commit to."
Kyle Thompson is the Senior Vice President in Risk Management at Arthur J. Gallagher, where he leads large teams on complex risk. He played pro golf for 17 years before pivoting to risk management in 2019. In this live from RIMS 2025 episode, Kyle reflects on the ways that his golf career prepared him for risk management. He highlights the similarities between the two careers, reflects on some of his biggest wins, and details the athletic characteristics that have helped him excel in his new career. Key Takeaways: ● Kyle's experience with golf was a family affair that is in his DNA. ● Advancing through the PGA was a multi-year-long effort. ● Kyle's pivot from pro golf to risk management. ● Risk and insurance knowledge started with earning accreditations. ● Kyle has zero regrets about his career in risk management. ● Reflections on Kyle's biggest wins and AJG's growing success. ● Addressing the male-dominated insurance landscape. ● Surprising discoveries that Kyle made once he joined the traditional workforce. ● Characteristics of ex-athletes who thrive in risk management. Mentioned in This Episode: Kyle Thompson Arthur J. Gallagher Tweetables: "I had a few offers to go into real estate, but it just didn't speak to me the way insurance did." "I was a pro at golf; now I'm an aspiring professional insurance broker." "I know what I know, and I know what I don't know." "Golf itself is really nothing but risk management."
Kate Fowler is the Global Head of Nuclear at WTW and a certified fire protection specialist. She previously contributed to Marsh's Global Specialty Energy & Power team, where she worked to advance nuclear energy initiatives. In this live from RIMS 2025 Chicago episode, Kate offers an insight into this highly specialized sector of risk management, including a look at the future of nuclear energy, the benefits of earning her ARM and CPCU advancing nuclear energy initiatives designations, and what she wishes she had known at the onset of her insurance career. Key Takeaways: ● Kate's role with WTW aims to support the global construction practice with nuclear plant contractors and potential operators. ● Originally an architectural engineer, nuclear engineering wasn't in Kate's initial career plan. ● The technical ins and outs of fire protection. ● Transitioning from loss control to underwriting to the broker side. ● Nuclear energy is ramping up again for the first time in a decade. ● Energy independence is becoming a greater focus than ever before. ● Clean energy technologies will be part of future solutions. ● Kate's perspective and expectation shift from an underwriter to a broker. ● The benefits of ARM and CPCU designations in Kate's career. ● Considerations when moving from one established broker to another. ● Types of nuclear energy, including advanced reactors, fission, and fusion. ● Kate's experience as a woman in a male-dominated field. ● Kate still doesn't know what she wants to be when she grows up — and that's okay. ● Don't worry about a career plan, just follow the breadcrumbs. ● Recruiting talent in the nuclear insurance industry means building a talent pool. Mentioned in This Episode: Kate Fowler WTW Tweetables: "Originally, I didn't even know nuclear insurance was a thing." "I want to do more for the nuclear industry and support more people in the nuclear industry." "For all of the new nuclear assets that are coming online, the first thing you've got to do is construct them." "My career has absolutely not gone the way I expected it to, and it has been amazing."
John Kempton is a Senior Consultant at FHS and is responsible for advising clients on program design and implementation, negotiating contracts, and implementing overall risk management strategy. Before joining FHS, John was the Southeast Zone Real Estate Leader and Senior Vice President for Marsh in Washington, DC. John entered the insurance industry in 2012. In this live from RIMS 2025 Chicago episode, John highlights industries that commonly outsource risk management, including real estate and hospitality, details the unique skillset of being a broker-turned-consultant, and offers encouragement to anyone who is wondering whether returning to the office is really worth the effort (it is). Key Takeaways: ● John's role at FHS focuses on real estate and construction space. ● Industries that commonly outsource risk management. ● From history major to insurance industry — John's unexpected career path. ● Acquiring insurance clients in the real estate industry. ● The benefits of offering a flat monthly retainer. ● Brokers turned consultants offer a unique skillset to clients. ● John's engagement preferences in the real estate and hospitality industry. ● Growth in this industry is not slowing down anytime soon. ● In another life, John is managing a safari lodge in South America. ● John's networking advice to his early career self. Mentioned in This Episode: John Kempton FHS Risk Management Tweetables: "Our job is to come in and manage the process rather than hijack the process." "Many of our clients don't even know that this outsourcing model exists." "The earlier we're involved with our clients, the better the outcome typically is." "Embrace being in the office and making connections."
Scott Smidlein is the Head of the Energy Practice at HSB (Hartford Steam Boiler), where his experience in both the insurance and energy industries has helped push HSB into a major insurer in the space. Previously Scott worked for Marsh as a Client Executive and Property Specialist for Marsh's Energy and Power Practice, where he worked with clients on tailoring their insurance programs to best fit their risk management needs. In this final live from RIMS 2024 episode, Scott details the intersection of insurance and energy, shares how curiosity and a willingness to try new things have benefitted his career, and underscores the importance of maintaining relationships throughout your career. Key Takeaways: ● Scott's role with HSB focuses on growing and running their cyber and energy practices. ● Risk management and insurance weren't Scott's initial career plan. ● The leap from Marsh to Lockton (and back again) gave Scott an opportunity to take on a new challenge. ● Scott is working to help HSB realize its full potential in the insurance and brokerage side. ● Transitioning from the brokerage side to the client side. ● Talent and willingness to try new things always equals opportunity in this industry. ● Scott's average day is chaotic and unpredictable – for now. ● Success, to Scott, means taking HSB to the next level in the insurance industry. ● Saving relationships in the face of a mistake means admitting your error as soon as possible. ● Scott's dream job includes a lot of chaos, a lot of success, and a lot of fun. ● Defining energy as it relates to the future. ● Scott's advice to his early career self is simple — be curious and ask questions. Mentioned in This Episode: Scott Smidlein HSB Tweetables: "To be a specialist in the energy sector you really have to know the technology." "The benefit of not burning any bridges when you leave a place is that you maintain those connections and the opportunities keep opening up." "If you're always the guy who raises your hand when people ask if you're looking for a new opportunity, you'll find yourself doing a lot of different things." "We're a very unique industry that has a ton of opportunity in place. Whatever you're passionate about, there's probably a job for it in the insurance industry."
Mike Tannenbaum is the Founder and Managing Partner of Key Strategies, a boutique recruitment firm that specializes in providing world-class insurance and risk management talent to Fortune 500, insurance brokerage, carrier, and consulting firms across the U.S. With over 30 years of experience in this niche market, Mike has built a best-in-class network of corporate risk managers, insurance brokers, underwriters, claims and safety directors, RIMS account managers, and risk consultants at all levels. In this live from RIMS 2024 episode, Mike answers the top questions about recruiting in the insurance industry, from how often is acceptable to switch positions, what the total compensation package looks like, and whether the non-compete agreement is still an issue in the industry. Key Takeaways: ● Mike shares the work that he does at Key Strategies and his podcast Should I Stay or Should I Go? ● Mike's path to becoming a career risk management recruiter started at a beach club. ● As a recruiter, Mike builds relationships with both candidates and companies. ● The importance and challenge of confidentiality in risk management recruiting. ● Why should you have conversations with a recruiter if you're not interested in changing jobs? ● Connecting candidates and employers in a pre-LinkedIn world. ● The evolving work of Key Strategies utilized LinkedIn as an effective tool. ● Addressing the talent shortage and inflation in the insurance industry. ● It's not only about salary — the importance of considering the total compensation package and the career opportunities. ● What is the acceptable timing to transition from one position to another? ● Is the non-compete agreement no longer an issue in the insurance industry? ● The most meaningful advice that Mike has learned in his career. Mentioned in This Episode: Mike on LinkedIn Key Strategies Tweetables: "A good risk manager really needs to understand their company and how they operate in every little detail to be able to provide the right insurance and advice." "There's nothing wrong with being open to having those introductory conversations with a recruiter." "LinkedIn has presented some great challenges and some great opportunities in recruiting." "If you want people to believe in the mission, you have to sell them on the mission." "If you have your superstar employees, or anyone that you really value, you have to give them a reason to want to stay."
Get a sneak peek into the world of risk management in higher education with Craig McAllister, the Assistant Vice President of Risk Management at the University of Miami and President of the University Risk Management and Insurance Association (URMIA). With over 25 years of experience in the field, including a significant tenure at Cornell University, Craig brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to managing risks in academic settings. In this episode, Craig discusses the dynamic challenges of his role, from enhancing campus safety while respecting free speech to mobilizing community leaders in risk mitigation efforts. He also shares insights into his responsibilities overseeing the University's comprehensive risk programs and his leadership at URMIA. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Craig and his work at the University of Miami. Craig loved that there was always something different to do when he got into this field. Being part of a bigger purpose keeps Craig energized. It's exciting to support the mission, the research, and the clinical care at University of Miami, and making things happen through the lens of risk. How does Craig think about risk when working at a University? What are some of the challenges Craig has faced lately? How does Craig manage risk on campus while also protecting people's free speech? How does Craig mobilize community leaders and help them think about risk mitigation? Every four years, Craig has to remind new students of the rules and policies, which helps you remember the basics. How do communication and public relations come into play? Craig talks about his role at URMIA. What advice does Craig have for professionals looking to get into risk management within academia? A shoutout to URMIA and their commitment to education. Mentioned in This Episode: University of Miami Craig on LinkedIn
Michael Levine is a partner in Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP's Washington, DC office and a leader of the Firm's Insurance Recovery Practice. He offers insights into the legal side of the risk management space and the important role that attorneys play in creating a system of checks and balances in the insurance space and offers insights from his experience to young professionals considering a career at the intersection of insurance and law. Key Takeaways: Michael shares insights into his work at Hunton Andrews Kurth. Being an attorney who practiced in insurance was not a childhood dream of Michael's. After becoming an attorney, the decision to specialize in insurance coverage was an easy one. Michael has practiced both in favor of the policyholder as well as on the carrier side. What were Michael's reasons for switching back and forth between the policyholder and carrier sides multiple times? The biggest misconceptions about the motives and actions of attorneys in the insurance space. What does it really mean if a lawyer gets involved in a claims case? The real reason Michael uses the term "policyholder" instead of "insured." Attorneys are in place to provide a healthy system of checks and balances within the insurance industry. Maximizing insurance recoveries means giving policyholders everything they're entitled to. When is the right time to get an attorney involved in insurance policies? Once counsel gets involved, whether the broker has done their job makes all the difference in the outcome of the claim. Michael's opinion on the high percentage of insurance payouts that ends up in attorney's pockets. Acquiring new clients through marketing and networking, because repeat business is not good business in policyholder litigation. Michael reveals the biggest lessons learned from his years of practicing law in the insurance space. Tips for picking up the technical language of the insurance world. It's all meaningful; Michael's advice for finding the issues that mean something to you and righting a wrong. Mentioned in This Episode: RIMS — San Diego Event Michael on LinkedIn Hunton Andrews Kurth
Daniel Kaniewski is the Managing Director at Marsh McLennan and an American government official who served as the acting deputy administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He also served as the deputy administrator of FEMA for Resilience. In this episode, Daniel recalls the impact that 9/11 had on his personal and professional life and how it strengthened his resolve to increase the country's preparation for catastrophic events. He shares the hurdles he has faced along the way, the role of luck and risk in every step of his career, and highlights the opportunities that response readiness and resilience have to offer young professionals today. Key Takeaways: Daniel highlights his role at Marsh and reveals his disaster resilience guru status. Daniel's unusual pathway into risk management started with a volunteer firefighter paramedic who wanted to figure out how to reduce losses in the first place. After maxing out his EMT certifications and education, Daniel turned to a Ph.D. in public policy. An internship on Capitol Hill led Daniel to support the Gilmore Commission, where he worked to increase first responders' preparation for terrorist attacks. In a post-9/11 world, policymaker interest has shifted dramatically in favor of proactive training against acts of terrorism. The personal and professional impact of 9/11 on Daniel's life and work. Watching the Pentagon take fire from the Capitol Building was a surreal moment, especially after learning that the Capitol Building was the likely target of Flight 93. Daniel's "why" in the years following 9/11 only strengthened his resolve to continue the work he had been doing in the years prior. Hurricane Katrina swung the pendulum from terrorism directly to natural disaster relief. Federal departments and missions continue with their work, regardless of presidential administration changes, but their focus may change with each new president. Every dollar invested in disaster mitigation saves $13 in physical and economic costs should a disaster occur. Daniel was willing to help set up FEMA, as long as he was able to maintain a focus on disaster resilience. Local and national governments informing the public about key catastrophic exposure is critical for gaining support for investments in response readiness. What prompted Daniel's shift from the public sector over to Marsh? Daniel recalls the professional relationships that have enabled him to take the risks that have made his career so fulfilling. Response readiness and resilience are top of mind across the country, and have a place for you! Mentioned in This Episode: Daniel on LinkedIn Marsh McLennan
Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard is the Senior Vice President for Lockton Companies. She is also a board member and treasurer for the Community of Hope, a non-profit focused on creating opportunities for low-income families in Washington, DC. In this episode, Jenna shares her journey from hesitantly stepping into a sales position to embracing her skills as a networker and people connector. She shares the truth behind the Lockton/Rolex legend and provides candid advice for young professionals navigating their careers. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Jenna and her role at Lockton Companies. Jenna, at first, didn't see herself in the production role, but with a bit of encouragement and mentorship, she jumped into the position. Because of that training, Jenna doesn't see herself as a salesperson, she sees herself as a communicator and bridge-builder. What was the first deal Jenna ever closed and what lessons did she learn from it? With any sales position, it's important to talk with the client and be intellectually curious. What does Jenna love the most about being in risk management? Another project Jenna is passionate about is connecting accredited female investors to commercial real estate investment opportunities. Jenna won the 2023 Women to Watch Awards Americas EMEA and shares what it was like to win an award like that for the non-profit sector. Is it true that you are gifted a Rolex after ten years of working for Lockton? Jenna shares advice if you're early in your career and you've been laid off and fired. Whatever happens, own up to your mistakes. Don't try to bury it because it will make it so much worse. What other advice does Jenna have for young risk professionals? The insurance industry has so many options for you! Don't underestimate the power of your young adult relationships in the industry. Everyone will be going on to do great things after 25-plus years in the industry and will become a wealth of knowledge, opportunities, and inspiration. Mentioned in This Episode: RIMS — San Diego Event Jenna on LinkedIn Lockton.com Communityofhopedc.org
Cheryl Reecher is the Vice President of Business Development at Cotton Holdings Inc. With a career spanning over two decades, across various high-profile roles in the insurance industry, Cheryl brings a rich wealth of experience from director of risk management to insurance broker, and now as a business developer. In this episode, Cheryl shares her journey from discovering insurance to mastering the intricacies of each major insurance role. Learn how Cheryl's diverse experiences have enabled her to effectively bridge the gap between underwriters, brokers, and risk managers and how simple communication skills can go a long way in this field. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Cheryl and her role at Cotton Holdings Inc. What does a restoration company do? How does a restoration company gauge risk and calculate appropriate fees? How did Cheryl discover insurance? What interested Cheryl about the broker side of risk management? Shoutout to all the brokers out there. It is probably one of the hardest jobs in insurance. After learning about the broker side, Cheryl moved to the carrier side of the insurance business. She shares some of her key learnings from that experience. Through these different role transitions that Cheryl underwent, she ended up having an easier time bridging the gap between underwriter, broker, and risk manager. Sometimes the best solution is just to sit everyone down and talk it out. What surprised Cheryl the most about being in a carrier role? Sometimes being the only woman in the room, Cheryl shares some advice for the younger generation. What other advice would Cheryl give someone up and coming in their career? Mentioned in This Episode: Cottonholdings.com Cheryl on LinkedIn
Martin Drux is a Multinational Executive and is currently leading Marsh Multinational's team in Europe, with a specialization in Asia Client Services. In this episode, Martin shares his experiences and the unique aspects of handling insurance across different continents. Martin also discusses the nuances of insurance practices in Germany versus the U.S., his role in vocational training insurance, and how he leverages his robust LinkedIn network to mentor and recruit talent from a multinational perspective. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Martin and what he does at Marsh. Does insurance get handled differently in Germany, where Martin is from, compared to the U.S.? If you want people to get excited about the industry, you have to tell stories about how your specific field makes a difference. Martin explains his field and how he got his start in vocational training insurance. What does a global relationship manager do within the insurance industry? Martin has a really robust portfolio and LinkedIn profile and now has over 21,000 followers. Now, with a strong LinkedIn base, Martin can use his platform to recruit and mentor talent from a multinational lens. Martin loves being able to use LinkedIn and network. It gives you a completely different sense of networking. Is there a difference between German brokers and U.S. brokers? How does Martin think about and structure mentorships? Very few people seem to know how to do this well. What advice would Martin give his younger self? Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com Martin on LinkedIn
Josh Levy is the CEO and co-founder of Document Crunch, an innovative company dedicated to explaining construction contracts as simply as possible. With a background in Construction Management from the University of Florida and an enriching experience as a construction law clerk, Josh's journey into construction and technology solutions is as compelling as it is impactful. This episode shares why Josh is so passionate about reducing risk in construction, how Document Crunch was born out of necessity, and the broader applications of their technology beyond just construction contracts. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Josh and his role at Document Crunch. How did Josh get into construction management and technology solutions? Why is construction so risky? Everything stems from what's written in the contract. If something bad or unexpected happens, the contract should have it covered and noted. Why is Josh so passionate about this industry? How does Document Crunch work? Is Document Crunch just limited to construction contracts? Josh shares what attracted him the most to this industry when he was first studying it in college. When it came time to start his own company, what pushed Josh to become entrepreneurial? So many people don't take their shot. Sometimes now is as good a time as any to take that risk. What's next for Josh and his company? Josh believes younger folks should be investing in soft skills because that's something AI won't be able to take over as easily. The contract is key at the end of the day, which means everyone who signs it or is involved in it, needs to understand in layman's terms what the contract covers. Why does Josh have an American flag behind him? He shares a quick story. Josh's final piece of advice: Learn as much as you can and then don't be afraid to take the risk. Mentioned in This Episode: Documentcrunch.com Josh on LinkedIn
James Benham is the co-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge and shares his journey from bootstrapping a tech empire from his college dorm to becoming a leader in the insurance technology space. With over two decades of experience, James has propelled JBKnowledge to the forefront of insurance software, serving some of the largest companies worldwide. In this episode, he discusses his hands-on approach to business, his passion for the insurance industry, and his thoughts on the future of automation and AI in insurance. Key Takeaways: A little bit about James and his companies. James shares a little bit about his experience flying seaplanes. What is James' vision with his companies? How did James bootstrap his companies and take in no investor money? Why is James so passionate about insurance? James shares how he thinks about AI and the future of automation in the insurance industry. James is happy that he can focus on the customers and his teammates and he doesn't have to worry about third-party investors. If you look at the large players with investor funding, a large percentage is focused on investor relations and that's a big distraction and takes away from the focus of the customer. How do you best identify a market problem that is both solvable and profitable? James speculates on what might be the next "big idea" in risk & insurance. Certificates of insurance are still a big pain. Is there any way we can simplify it? Mentioned in This Episode: Jamesbenham.com James on LinkedIn Jbknowledge.com Terra.insure Insurtechgeek.com
Anne Marie Towle is the CEO of Global Risk & Captive Solutions at Hylant. Since joining Hylant, Anne has grown the company's captive consultancy into a powerhouse, earning U.S. Captive Review's Captive Manager of the Year award. Prior to joining Hylant, Ms. Towle was an executive vice president with JLT and formerly a senior consultant with Willis Towers Watson for over seven years. In this episode, Anne shares her experience in the insurance industry, what a captive is, and when it makes sense to take on a captive based on company or property size. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Anne and her role at Hylant. How did Anne discover the insurance industry? There are a lot of different launch paths when you join the insurance and captive field. When does it make sense to look for captive solutions? Anne shares what it's like pushing forward as a woman in a male-dominated industry. No matter where you are in your career, you should have your personal board of directors. Surround yourself with the people you enjoy spending time with, and grow together. Life is never perfectly balanced. You've got to walk the line a little bit between career growth and family. Anne likes to look at it year-by-year instead of day-by-day. Education is highly important throughout your career. You need to educate yourself along with educating your team on the latest methods/processes/technologies. There are a lot of captives overseas. Why is that? Where can a younger professional learn more about captives? What advice would Anne give to her younger self? Mentioned in This Episode: Hylant.com Anne on LinkedIn Iccie.org
Michael Galea is a seasoned Senior Underwriter at GCube Insurance Services Inc., with a decade of experience specializing in offshore wind projects and other renewable energy initiatives worldwide. Michael delves into his journey into underwriting, the challenges and triumphs he has faced at GCube, and his approach to delivering difficult news to clients. In the second half of the show, Peter Nadel joins the podcast as the Director of Member Relations and Marketing at Energy Insurance Mutual (EIM). On the show, Peter delves into his new role at EIM, the unique aspects of industry mutuals compared to other insurance models, and his seamless transition from Marsh to EIM while maintaining positive relationships. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Michael and the work that he's doing at GCube Insurance. How did Michael get into underwriting? Michael shares a moment in his career at GCube that he's really proud of. Michael offers tips for when you have to give bad news to a client. Give people bad news early and in person. Michael shares his focus on the renewable energy space in the upcoming years. A little bit about Peter and his work at EIM. What is an industry mutual and how is that different than other insurance mutuals? How did Peter get into insurance? Peter recently left Marsh, but yet he's here at the Marsh's Energy Conference with no bad blood. Peter explains why it's important to communicate and be honest about your needs. What's the difference between an industry captive vs. an industry mutual? Peter understands how much work goes behind this podcast and appreciates being on the show. Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com GCube Insurance Michael on LinkedIn 2024 Energy Industry Conference Peter on LinkedIn Energy Insurance Mutual Limited
Yan Veytsman is a Senior Account Executive at Marsh, specializing in risk management for large-scale projects, particularly within the renewable energy sector. Yan has successfully placed multiple construction and operational insurance policies for projects exceeding $100 million. His expertise shines in navigating the complex risks associated with natural catastrophes and developing innovative insurance solutions for the burgeoning renewable energy industry. In this episode, Yan discusses the intricacies of managing risks in the renewable energy sector, and why it's slightly more difficult than traditional tried-and-true industries. We also have Senior Vice President of Power & Renewables, Fred Wass, make a special guest appearance. Fred has been involved in the energy sector for the last 39 years and currently oversees Marsh's Energy Practice. In his segment, he offers some insight into the energy sector as a relatively new insurance professional himself. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Yan and how he found his path in risk management. What interests Yan about renewable energy? Renewable energy is an industry that's still developing, so Yan has some room to innovate and define a new model for how to run some of his accounts. Why can't we use other models in different industries and put them in the renewable space? Why is it so different? With every single venture that Yan's been involved in, he's having to figure it out from scratch. There are too many variables to consider that don't quite transfer over from the old tried-and-true models from well-established industries. How has the oil and gas industry been adapting to the renewable energy sector? Does it still make sense to invest in oil and gas? Katie introduces a new guest, Fred Wass. How did Fred get into this field and why has he stayed for the last 39 years? Fred developed power plants in Pakistan early in his career, but he fell into the insurance industry about 10 years ago. Fred believes it's a lot easier today to talk to people within your industry and company than it was five years ago. Fred is excited for the future! There's so much to do and there's a lot more to come in the next 10 years. Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com Yan on LinkedIn Fred on LinkedIn 2024 Energy Industry Conference
Jen Aitchison is the President of Renewable Risk Consulting Inc. With over 15 years of dedicated experience, Jen has become an award-winning leader known for her deep understanding of renewable energy risks and her ability to create transparent, economically viable insurance solutions. In this episode, Jen delves into the nuances of renewable energy insurance and the importance of education and adaptation in the sector and she offers her unique perspective on the future of energy and insurance for those still in college. Key Takeaways: This episode was recorded at Marsh's 2024 North American Energy Industry Conference! A big shout out to Michael Kolodner and his amazing leadership. Everybody backs clean energy, but sometimes there is a sense of distrust about the "correct" way. Why is that? We will need all types of energy for us to succeed in making it renewable energy. Coal energy is dirty. We all agree it should be reduced, including the coal miners! But then it stops becoming a conversation of energy and a conversation of education and re-employment. The average person is not aware of how many different facets of insurance exist. People think insurance is repetitive and boring. We as an industry need to get better at showing interesting and live case studies. Pick whatever industry your children want to go into and there's an insurance claim that needs to be filed or underwritten within that industry. If you're looking for stable employment, the insurance industry will never go through a "recession." What advice does Jen give to younger college students who aren't sure what they want to do with their life? Love sports? Love to travel? You can become an insurance underwriter for the sports industry. There are so many avenues you can go. Why is Jen so interested in sustainability? 16 years later, Jen still finds the work she does engaging, impactful, and important! Mentioned in This Episode: Marsh.com Renewableriskconsulting.ca Jen on LinkedIn Marsh's 2024 North American Energy Industry Conference red."
Join us as we sit down with Miles Braxton, the Director of Risk Management at Summit Ridge Energy, at the Energy Industry Conference in Houston, Texas. In this episode, Miles discusses the unique aspects of community solar, the importance of diversity in the clean energy industry, and his role in co-founding the Black Oak Collective. Key Takeaways: A little bit about Miles and his role at Summit Ridge Energy. What is community solar? It's Miles's mission to provide cheaper electricity directly to residents, especially in underserved communities. Miles always knew he wanted to get involved with energy. He credits his high-school math teacher for the inspiration. How did Miles transition from working on anaerobic digestion projects to focusing on solar energy? Miles decided to join Summit Ridge Energy for a more community-impactful role and he loved the company's mission. What is the Society of Black Solar Professionals? What was the inspiration for co-founding the Black Oak Collective? Miles shares how he created strategic partnerships and relationships in his career and the impact of certain team members in propelling the Black Oak Collective. This generation is creating a shift in company culture because they are approaching careers from a passion-driven mindset. Miles shares the story behind his favorite colorful drink and the importance of shared experiences in building relationships. What is the Green Gateways program by Black Oak Collective? Mentioned in This Episode: Srenergy.com Blackoakcollective.org Miles on LinkedIn 2024 Energy Industry Conference Thank you :D