Meet Ben Raun - HNI Minnesota's newest Account Executive. With 10 years of experience in the insurance industry and previous stints as a wildland firefighter and pre-k soccer coach, Ben is well equipped to help tackle clients' wickedest problems.
What inspired you to make a career move to HNI?
I received a message on LinkedIn from an individual on the People Team. I wasn't actively looking for a new position, but her message encouraged me to open myself up to new opportunities.
You've been in the Insurance Industry for over 10 years. What's your favorite part about it?
My favorite part is the tandem between education and strategy. Education helps clients learn about various strategies they can implement within their company. It is our job to educate our clients to make sure they understand their options and how it will impact them in a positive or negative manner.
Next, strategy comes into play. Being a key partner in a client's business to not only introduce possible strategies, but to be a part of the decision process is what it's all about. You become an extension of their own office.
What were you most surprised to learn about HNI?
The 1-week unplug. I usually have a tough time stepping away and using my vacation time. This forces me to get away from the office, enjoy time with my family, and spend a week stress-free. Dictating your own time-off is a breath of fresh air and is invaluable in my opinion.
How do you plan to spend your mandatory 1-week unplug?
I plan to spend it by taking my family to Harry Potter World for a week. We haven't gone on a vacation in a few years, so I'm really looking forward to this memory!
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Other than being a certified Wildland Firefighter in high school - I am currently halfway through my MBA at the University of St. Thomas. As you can imagine, I spend the majority of my evenings studying.
