Lisa Marshall, Risk All-Stars
Lisa Marshall
Executive Vice President – Program Division
Swain & Baldwin Insurance, Inc./ NREG-ADM, LLC
What is your educational background?
Bachelor of Science in legal studies, Bellevue University, summa cum laude Master of Jurisprudence, Texas A&M – School of Law, licensed P&C adjuster, licensed agent CLCS designation
Did you know you wanted to go into the risk profession? If not, what was your journey to get here?
I think a small percentage of people, especially when I started working, fell into this field by accident (no pun intended). I am no exception. I worked in commercial real estate and then in a buying office for a large retailer. The CFO of the retailer requested that I work in the claims department to help automate and organize the department. From there it is history. I built my career through on-the-job learning, lots of hard work, and dedication to furthering my education.
How long have you been working in the risk profession?
20+ years
What do you love most about what you do?
Working with people… my team, the producers, the clients, etc. I love that there is something new to learn, each and every day. No matter how long you have been in the business, there is always something new to learn.
Has managing risk changed over the course of your career? If so, how?
Absolutely! I think that initially we looked at risk in a reactive way versus proactive. I also feel that corporations did not invest as heavily (if at all in some cases) in Risk Management or safety the way they do today. Implementation of ERM programs, ability to dedicate our education to the risk discipline, etc., has incredibly expanded over the years. So many talented and immensely intelligent professionals exist in our field.
What advice would you give to someone who is about to start their career in the risk profession?
I would tell them that they are picking a fantastic field that they will learn from each and every day. I would advise them to major in a risk program at a well-known university and obtain their degree in insurance and risk management. I would further recommend that they attend RIMS meetings, get involved in the industry organizations, collaborate, network, obtain designations, and focus on an area of the profession that excites them and they find interesting. Most important – find a supportive mentor.
Do you have a personal motto? If so, what is it?
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney
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