I’ve been in the trenches and know what it takes to get the job done. I’m known for my work ethic and commitment to mentorship.
Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community?
Honoring achievement isn’t just about patting each other on the back — it’s a mechanism that allows us to, as a business community, raise the bar and recognize leaders who are driving Arizona’s economy forward. Achievement holds us accountable, encourages continuous improvement and sets the example for the next generation of leaders.
Honoring the best leaders our business community has to offer ensures our workforce can truly thrive. And in Arizona, that’s a tall order — we have hundreds of thousands of people moving here every year, whether searching for a stable, competitive job and commensurate cost of living or wanting to tap into our state’s favorable business conditions to expand or launch an enterprise.
What is the single most important thing you have learned throughout your career that would inspire others/other women?
Hard work coupled with persistence can move mountains. From sales to executive leadership, I’ve found that respect, credibility and partnerships are earned when we exhibit the drive to get the job done, even as obstacles pop up in our paths.
However, persistence also requires empathy, patience and a strategic mindset, as you must consider fairness and timing as you work toward your goals. It’s impractical to expect immediate answers to your questions or proposals when others are wrapped up in their own daily responsibilities and deadlines. It’s important to consider all sides of a partnership or situation.
Often, women have added pressures to find their footing — particularly in male-dominated fields. This played a pivotal part in my career because, as for many women, it was important for me to balance between assertiveness and politeness. Yet, I have always found that “polite persistence” pays off.
What do you think we can do – now – to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?
Throughout the years, I’ve seen many young people and women struggle to strike the balance between growing in a career and starting a family. I certainly struggled with this balance myself at times. However, it really is possible to do both — and to do both successfully.
I found the greatest success (and relief) when I sought out professional mentors to guide me along the corporate journey. I wasn’t flailing, so to speak. I had a compass of sorts, as esteemed colleagues and partners pointed me in the right direction and helped me hone both soft and hard skills without the struggle of doing everything on my own.
They say it takes a village, and I think that’s true with both business and family. If you actively seek guidance and mentorship, you will be better prepared to navigate the tricky balance between office and home.
In A Few Words
- What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? Certified Risk Manager
- What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Drive
- What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? Inquisitiveness
- What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Connecting
- What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? How to accommodate the influx of people and businesses moving — or wanting to move — to Arizona.
About Me
I lead the Arizona operations of Marsh McLennan Agency, a leading business insurance and employee benefits brokerage. In my CEO role, I manage the company’s overall strategic direction and development to ensure operations run seamlessly and our colleagues accomplish their goals, strengthening the agency’s dedication to communities across Arizona.
I’ve played a key role in the firm’s growth since joining in 2003 and have served a wide range of high-profile clients across the manufacturing, nonprofit and construction industries, providing expertise in risk management, strategic planning, underwriting, workers’ compensation, financial analysis, professional liability, health insurance, D&O, mergers and more.
