NAME: Leigh Anne Sherman
NEW JOB TITLE: New York-based president, ESIS Inc., a Chubb Ltd. company
PREVIOUS POSITION: New York-based president, ESIS Inc., a Chubb Ltd. company
INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: Industries and companies across the board are affected by macro-economic conditions and impacted by the pandemic. In our industry, we are seeing hard or hardening market conditions, and that in turn may lead companies to take on more risk through a large deductible or self-insured retention program. This creates an opportunity for third-party administrators to demonstrate their value as risk management partners by providing not only a broad array of claims, absence and risk management solutions but actionable program insights driven by data and analytics and underscored by effective claim management. ESIS has always focused on helping clients find the ah-ha in their data and leverage that information to improve program performance. Of course, analytics must be paired with effective claim management. The innovative and effective use of data, predictive models and technology will be critical to furthering the TPA and client partnership.
GOALS FOR NEW POSITION: My goal is straightforward to make a meaningful impact for every ESIS client. The TPA industry has an opportunity to further demonstrate significant value to our clients through enhanced partnerships. Our entire ESIS team is dedicated to leaning in through excellence in our claims, absence and risk management solutions as well as innovation in many areas. As part of our cutting-edge claims system and expanding digital ecosphere, we are investing heavily in data science, analytics and predictive modeling. Our objective is to move beyond improving data visualization and deliver truly meaningful insights, increasing the value of the risk management function to their companies. I am confident that the executive committee of exceptional senior leaders will help ESIS continue to drive tailored solutions to the marketplace that are fast, agile and configurable. I also strongly believe in empowering and developing talent throughout the organization and industry.
CHALLENGES FACING THE INDUSTRY: While there are exciting developments in data science and technology, the talent in our industry is its foundation. There is an ongoing need to attract and develop fresh, new talent to partner with and learn from our tenured professionals and provide new insights and diversity of thought that will lead to further transformative solutions. What has not changed and will continue to drive success for us and results for our clients is the energy and professionalism that makes a difference in claims, absence and risk management solutions.
FIRST EXPERIENCE IN THE INDUSTRY JOB MARKET: I had a very interesting start in the industry. I was hired to lead the implementation and change management of transformational technology think hand me your paper files and Ill hand you a mouse. This allowed me to be the proverbial fly on the wall as I sat through department meetings and client presentations, sat with adjusters, and attended loss control visits, etc., to really learn how each department transacted business. At the time, I didnt realize the value this broad-based entry to the industry provided but since have come to appreciate the unique perspective and opportunity.
ADVICE: This is an amazing industry that most newcomers dont have a full appreciation of be a student of the industry. Ask questions. Find solutions. Focus on the client. Cultivate ideas and possibilities. Build your network. Work hard.
OUTSIDE THE INDUSTRY, A DREAM JOB:
COLLEGE MAJOR:
LOOKING FORWARD TO: I am most looking forward to advancing and growing relationships as we navigate the numerous opportunities to partner with our clients and dedicated professionals. Risk is continually evolving — and so are the opportunities to help our clients manage it. ESIS is continually expanding the strategic pre-and post-loss solutions we offer, including claims management, absence management, and health, safety and environmental services. As an industry, were at a turning point with technology, and ESIS is well positioned to take new approaches to our digital ecosphere and innovative use of data. When we harness all that with the talent we have and are developing across our organization, the possibilities are endless and exciting. The key is to continue to build strong partnerships with our clients so we focus our efforts and energy on developing new products and services that will help them accomplish their goals.
FAVOURITE MEAL: Showing my Texas roots, all things Tex-Mex.
BOOK: I am an avid reader, so finding a favorite can be difficult. The Choice: Embrace the Possible, by Edith Eger, is a recent favorite. However, if I had to choose one through time, it would be To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee.
HOBBIES: I love being outdoors: hiking, boating and golf are a few favorites. My travel bucket list is very long as I enjoy travel and the local experience.
TV SHOW: Im not a huge TV person you dont want me on any team that needs to know pop culture.
ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON: Saturday afternoons are spent with friends, family and my dog. It is usually low-key, but we enjoy being together.
