NAME: Janis Hagenbucher
NEW JOB TITLE: New Jersey-based managing director, Crawford Forensic Accounting Services, Crawford Global Technical Services, Crawford & Co.
PREVIOUS POSITION: Philadelphia-based senior vice president, forensic accountant, Lowers Forensics International
INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: There is an increasing need for the technical abilities of forensic accounting professionals, especially in the insurance industry. The property/casualty insurance sector continues to remain stable. An area of growth may include cybersecurity and other factors impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. This along with increasing financial regulations and other outside factors will increase the demand of forensic accountants.
GOALS FOR NEW POSITION: My goal in joining Crawfords global technical services team is to grow the forensic accounting services in collaboration with the loss adjusting team. Increasing our exposure in the marketplace regarding our expertise working on business interruption, property damage, fidelity and other casualty matters is my main objective. My top priorities are teamwork and empowering others, fostering a growth mindset and continuing to excel in our field while advancing our quality services to our clients. As an organization, we are committed to restoring and enhancing lives, businesses and communities.
CHALLENGES FACING THE INDUSTRY: The property/casualty insurance industry is ever-changing. The current pandemic situation has certainly added challenges to the forensic accounting world. When considering business interruption claims, historical revenue trends may no longer be relevant to revenue projections. Changes in the composition of a business traditional profit and loss statements need to be analyzed more closely and recognized. Changes in the cyber marketplace and ransomware claims are also a growing market.
FIRST EXPERIENCE IN THE INDUSTRY JOB MARKET: My most memorable experience in the field was when I had to be deposed on a major legal case while interning for a forensic accounting firm during college. I was told that I would fly into another city, give my deposition, and fly out the same day. However, after I landed at the airport there was bad weather and the deposition was postponed until the next day. I was there with only the clothes on my back. Needless to say, I learned a valuable lesson, when traveling for work I always pack an overnight bag.
ADVICE: Be a team player, communicate and engage with your peers. Strive to learn as much as possible and continue self-development.
OUTSIDE THE INDUSTRY, A DREAM JOB: I really enjoy gardening and flower arranging, so I would open a small flower shop and surround myself with beautiful flowers.
COLLEGE MAJOR: Accounting
LOOKING FORWARD TO: I am looking forward to contributing my knowledge and experience to others within our team. I enjoy teaching and mentoring others when dealing with property/casualty insurance claims. I also look forward to expanding the forensic accounting team and growing with Crawfords vision of being the leading provider for expert assistance, serving those who insure and self-insure the risks of businesses and communities anywhere in the world.
FAVOURITE MEAL: This is tough question, as I thoroughly enjoy most meals shared with a glass of wine among family and friends. If I had to pick a true favorite meal, it would be grilled fish and vegetables. Although any kind of seafood is wonderful.
BOOK:
HOBBIES: My hobbies include boating, hiking, campfires, and spending time in the outdoors. I also like to travel and plan road trips. Spending casual time with family and friends is the ultimate best.
TV SHOW: I enjoy watching the food network and baking challenges. Other favorites include travel shows, tiny house, RV destinations, which all fit right into my love of travel and adventure.
ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON: Spending time with friends and family relaxing and sharing good times.
