Please tell me a little bit about your background/experience, and how you chose to work in the insurance industry.
After studying at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, I began my insurance career as a processor for a Worcester-based carrier, where I quickly advanced into an underwriting role. Over the years, I developed extensive experience in underwriting, which eventually led me to a local agency where I served as both a Commercial Lines Account Manager and Operations Manager. That agency-side experience gave me valuable insight into client service and agency operations, further strengthening my understanding of the full insurance lifecycle.
I later returned to the carrier side as a Senior Underwriter for Concord Group Insurance where I continued to grow professionally – earning my Associate in Insurance (AINS) designation. The opportunity to join Hospitality Insurance Group presented itself back in September 2022 and was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I am currently working toward my Associate in Underwriting (AU). Each step in my career has helped build a well-rounded foundation in commercial lines insurance, both from an underwriting and customer-focused perspective.
When did you begin working at Hospitality Insurance Group (HIG)?
I began my journey with HIG as a Senior Underwriter in October 2022 and transitioned into the role of Underwriting Manager in January 2025.
What were your responsibilities when you began at HIG?
Initially, I was responsible for new and renewal business in the Rhode Island and Connecticut territories, during a time when market conditions in Rhode Island were becoming increasingly challenging. I focused on growing our footprint and strengthening relationships with our agency partners.
How has your role evolved since 2022?
In early 2024, Sandra (Haley) and I discussed the possibility of moving to Maine, which had been part of my longer-term plan. However, Sandra presented me with the opportunity to step into management much sooner than anticipated. Although I had reservations about whether I was ready to take on a leadership role in such a specialized field, her encouragement—and the mentorship I’ve received throughout my career—gave me the confidence to move forward.
What would you say about your current role and the benefits of working at HIG?
Today, I continue to work closely with my underwriting territory while leading an incredible team who have embraced the added responsibilities with grace and resilience. I am also fortunate to be learning from an outstanding group of executives who have provided valuable insight into how we operate and sustain a successful niche insurance company.
Connecting with the team on a leadership level has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. It’s been an amazing experience to not only work alongside this talented group for the past two years but now, also, have the privilege of helping lead them as we continue to grow and succeed together.
What’s one lesson from your early career that still sticks with you today?
Never underestimate the value of relationships—whether it’s with agents, coworkers, or clients. Insurance is a ‘people business’ at the end of the day, and strong relationships are what carry you through challenges and opportunities alike.
What do you think your team would say is your superpower?
Numbers. I have a weirdly good memory when it comes to them—premium figures, rate ranges, effective dates—you name it. My team has caught on that if they need a number recalled, there’s a good chance I already have it memorized.
If you could give your younger professional self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready—some of the best growth happens when you step into the unknown with a little doubt and a lot of determination
If your management style had a theme song, what would it be and why?
If my management style had a theme song, it would be ‘Fight Song’ by Rachel Platten—it’s all about quiet strength and believing in yourself, even when the odds feel stacked. I aim to support my team in finding their voice, building confidence, and pushing forward no matter how tough the market (or the Monday) gets.
What’s one thing you’re most excited to accomplish in this position?
One thing I’m most excited to accomplish in this position is streamlining the underwriting process in a way that makes doing business with us easier—for both our agents and our internal team. We’ve already taken steps in that direction with initiatives like automatic renewals and enhanced agent communication tools, but I see so much potential to keep improving efficiency, consistency, and collaboration. It’s incredibly rewarding to create systems that support growth and empower people to do their best work.