AGE: 28
TITLE: Program Director, Risk Leadership Development Program Strategic Priorities and Special Projects, Market Risk
COMPANY NAME: Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
COMPANY’S LOCATION: Hartford
RESIDENCE: South Windsor
What do you do? I have an amazing job at The Hartford because it’s really two very different positions rolled into one. As program director of the Risk Leadership Development Program (RLDP), I’m responsible for recruiting high-potential early career talent into Enterprise Risk Management and developing their core risk management competencies, business acumen, leadership skills, and professionalism. The members of the RLDP are incredibly bright and motivated individuals, and it’s an honor to help shape their growth as future leaders of the company. The other half of my job involves working with senior leaders across our Market Risk team to ensure successful progress on the organization’s strategic priorities. That means I get to play a part in some of The Hartford’s key initiatives to help the firm achieve profitable growth and maximize shareholder value.
What do you want to be doing in 10 years? The work we do in Enterprise Risk Management is pivotal to The Hartford’s continued success as a leading financial services company, and I look forward to advancing my career within this organization. Wherever the future takes me, though, I hope I’m just as enthusiastic and passionate about my job in 10 years as I am today!
What is your biggest strength? Over the past few years, I’ve learned the value of knowing how to be your own biggest advocate, and having that ability has allowed me to progress quickly at my company despite having a non-traditional background for the financial services industry (an undergraduate degree in music). If you’re genuinely passionate about your goals and know how to be assertive in going after opportunities, most people will want to give you the chance to succeed.
Where do you go for new ideas? I’m fortunate to work in an area full of really smart people who can provide a diverse set of perspectives and solutions. My friends and family are also an incredible source of inspiration. When I really hit a wall and need to shake up my brain to get unstuck, I go to ML Fitness in Manchester for personal training or a fitness class. Exercise is the best brain food!
What is the best advice you received? My parents gave me a card for my last birthday with a quote from Gandhi: “Be truthful, gentle, and fearless.” In some form or another, they’ve been giving me this advice for as long as I can remember. No matter what you want to do in life, those three traits are the keys to success and happiness.
What service or charitable cause has your attention? I have been a member of the board of directors of Operation Fuel since 2009. We partner with fuel banks around the entire state of Connecticut to ensure that people in need have access to year-round energy assistance. Energy affordability is a huge issue in many households and Operation Fuel has successfully partnered with communities, governments and businesses to help ease the burden of energy costs for 35 years. This year, I’m proud to serve as the board secretary and the co-chair of our development committee, which is responsible for overseeing the fundraising efforts of the organization. Our biggest annual fundraising event, the Burn Calories for Fuel 5K, grossed about $33,000 this year! In addition to Operation Fuel, I work on The Hartford’s annual United Way campaign, Foodshare’s Walk Against Hunger, and volunteer for Hartford Marathon Foundation events. There are so many great charitable organizations in the Hartford area, and I try to be involved in as many as possible in at least a small way. Every little bit helps to improve our community for those who live and work here.
