We are pleased to announce a new Spotlight blog series titled, “5 Questions With.” Get to know our business leaders as we ask them 5 interview questions and feature their answers, advice and industry insight on this blog.
Our first interview features Bob Gallagher, President of International Marine Underwriters.
- What was your first insurance job?
I was an underwriting trainee at Marine Office of America Corporation, concentrating on Yacht business. - What experiences growing up do you think best prepared you for a leadership role?
Growing up, my parents always told me to listen before you speak. I have carried that with me through my career. As a leader you have to be inclusive and listen to what people have to say and build a consensus of opinion before making a plan of action.
- What is your proudest professional moment?
I am very proud of my time as Chairman of the American Institute of Marine Underwriters (AIMU), a trade organization that represents the interests of marine underwriters. We were advocating on issues that affect marine insurers and also represented the United States in the global marine insurance forums. It was a pretty high profile position and everyone knew I worked at IMU, so it was great exposure for our company. - If I wasn’t in insurance I would be doing….. something in sales or marketing. I enjoy interacting with people and “closing the deal.” The art of negotiation is fascinating and challenging. I have learned that a good deal is a win-win on both sides. It’s like a chess match, a great challenge.
- What advice would you give to someone just entering the industry?
Learn your craft and be patient. Training programs are not what they used to be, it takes time to learn the language of insurance. Technical knowledge with reference to risk selection and policy language is especially vital in this industry. Anyone can come up with a rate but it has to be enough to cover the exposure. It all comes back to one of our big principles which is underwriting comes first.
5 replies on “Five Questions With IMU’s Bob Gallagher”
I really like this series – good job with the questions. Please continue with other business leaders. It helps “know” them better for most of us from a distance – some of whom we have never met.
Great answers! I look forward to read more on “5 Questions With” series.
Thanks for sharing. The post was fun to read, and I also think the series is a great idea!
Thank you all for your positive comments. We are excited to continue with the series. Stay tuned for our next interview in August!
This is a very fun way of learning about our business leaders. I look forward to reading the next interview responses.