Account Executive, Employee Benefits
What inspired you to make a career move to HNI?
I was inspired by how forward thinking and proactive HNI is with their clients and also with their employees. I was very comfortable at my previous employer. However, from the moment I was introduced to HNI by Jennifer, I knew this is where I wanted to be. HNI inspires clients and employees to think outside the box and that anything is possible, and there is no limit to what we can accomplish. I was also inspired on how HNI works with clients to develop a long term partnership in all areas of their business so we can work together to improve the client and those they serve.
What were you most surprised to learn about HNI?
I was surprised to learn how big HNI is and also how strategic they are with their clients, especially through SWARMS. It still amazes me when I go to a SWARM meeting that we have such a large group dedicated to helping a team member provide the most to a client or prospect. HNI feels like such a small company, because of the personal touch we give to our clients and also to one another. However, it is incredible the resources and size HNI has to help clients and employees grow and succeed.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
People would be most surprised to learn I eat Plant Based the majority of the time. I started running at the age of 38 as a way to get in shape, but more importantly to inspire my cousin who was going through cancer treatment at the time. I figured if she could go through chemotherapy I could push myself to run. Twenty minutes turned into an hour, and hour turned into seven miles, seven miles turned into thirteen miles. What I discovered was the more I ran, the more fuel I needed. I tried multiple different foods. However, at the suggestion of my wife, I started to eat more plant based. Soon I discovered I had more energy, slept better, and was more productive, and this in turn lead me to the need to train for a marathon because of how great I felt. Three years to the date I started running, I completed my first marathon. I feel half my age right now, a big reason for this is because I eat mostly Plant Based. I look forward to completing my next running marathon and also completing my marathon in service to others through HNI.
How do you plan to spend your mandatory 1 week unplug?
My family, including my parents, wife, children and siblings and their children are going to Colorado in June for a family trip. There will be 17 of us spending a week together.
Why did you choose the Insurance Industry as a career?
I was introduced to my previous employer by my financial advisor at the time, in 2003. I knew nothing about insurance prior to accepting the job. I soon realized how lucky I was to be able to work with so many different clients each day. I enjoy being able to teach employers and employees about the different aspects of their benefits, strategize about how to accomplish their goals, and work as an advocate for them in their times of need.
