The Voices of Risk Management

In Risk Management, You Get to Create Your Own Destiny with Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard

Sep 6, 2024

Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard, Senior Vice President at Lockton Companies and treasurer for the Community of Hope, shares her inspiring journey in the risk management industry. She discusses her transition from a hesitant salesperson to a skilled communicator, emphasizing the importance of mentorship. Jenna reveals insights about the famed Lockton/Rolex tradition and highlights her passion for connecting female investors in real estate. With candid advice for young professionals, she champions the value of networking and inclusivity in building a successful career.

31:16

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Episode guests

Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard emphasizes the critical role of mentorship in navigating career transitions within risk management, shaping her authentic client connections.

Advocating for diversity in the insurance industry, Jenna highlights the importance of broadening recruitment efforts to attract talent from various backgrounds.

Deep dives

Career Path and Insurance Industry Insights

The podcast discusses the journey of Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard, who began her career in insurance after being introduced to the field during her college years. Initially studying mathematics, her encounter with an actuary inspired her to explore a career in insurance, a path she embraced despite her initial aspirations to become an actuary. Jenna's early experiences in private equity allowed her to gain invaluable insight into risk management and client relationships. This foundation eventually led her to become a producer at Lockton, highlighting the industry's diverse career opportunities that often stem from unexpected beginnings.

Intro

2min

From Broker to Producer: A Journey in Risk Management

15min

Celebrating Achievement: The Impact of Awards and Milestones

2min

Cultivating Positive Corporate Culture

4min

Building Diversity in Risk Management

5min

Building Connections for Career Success

4min

Jenna Kirkpatrick Howard is the Senior Vice President for Lockton Companies. She is also a board member and treasurer for the Community of Hope, a non-profit focused on creating opportunities for low-income families in Washington, DC. In this episode, Jenna shares her journey from hesitantly stepping into a sales position to embracing her skills as a networker and people connector. She shares the truth behind the Lockton/Rolex legend and provides candid advice for young professionals navigating their careers.

Key Takeaways:

A little bit about Jenna and her role at Lockton Companies.
Jenna, at first, didn’t see herself in the production role, but with a bit of encouragement and mentorship, she jumped into the position.
Because of that training, Jenna doesn’t see herself as a salesperson, she sees herself as a communicator and bridge-builder.
What was the first deal Jenna ever closed and what lessons did she learn from it?
With any sales position, it’s important to talk with the client and be intellectually curious.
What does Jenna love the most about being in risk management?
Another project Jenna is passionate about is connecting accredited female investors to commercial real estate investment opportunities.
Jenna won the 2023 Women to Watch Awards Americas EMEA and shares what it was like to win an award like that for the non-profit sector.
Is it true that you are gifted a Rolex after ten years of working for Lockton?
Jenna shares advice if you’re early in your career and you’ve been laid off and fired.
Whatever happens, own up to your mistakes. Don’t try to bury it because it will make it so much worse.
What other advice does Jenna have for young risk professionals?
The insurance industry has so many options for you!
Don’t underestimate the power of your young adult relationships in the industry. Everyone will be going on to do great things after 25-plus years in the industry and will become a wealth of knowledge, opportunities, and inspiration.