Andy Bessette
EVP & Chief Administrative Officer
Travelers
Milestones
My road in life has taken me all over.
I grew up in a relatively economically challenged, diverse mill town in Rhode Island, with grandparents who were Polish immigrants, all of which had a profound influence on my life.
Growing up, I was always the tall kid because I was 6'2 at the age of 12. I stood out and was somewhat bullied. I faced challenges everyday because of my size, which was really tough.
I was a first generation college student, so going to college was a huge deal for me and my family. Going to graduate school was an even bigger deal!
I was a member of the 1980 Olympic team. After I won the U.S. Olympic Trials for track and field in the hammer throw, the President and Congress decided to boycott the Olympics. I didn't get to go.
I learned that you don't always control your own fate and some things are beyond your control, but that does not stop you from trying your hardest, outworking everyone around you, and never giving up.
After I landed a career at Travelers where I've had several opportunities. I've worked in several offices across the company and have held various operational roles with increasing responsibilities.
Education
High School
Graduate
Economic Geography
University of Rhode Island
Economic Geography
University of Rhode Island
Certification/License
Advanced Professional in Real Estate and the Workplace
International Development Research Corporation
Advanced Professional in Real Estate and the Workplace
International Development Research Corporation
Certification/License
RPI
BOMA
RPI
BOMA
Career
EVP & Chief Administrative Officer
I lead a variety of operations that make up the bulk of Corporate Services.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Business
Education
Accomplishing Goals
Day to Day
There is no typical day. For instance, all in one day, we may buy and sell key assets for the company, negotiate major contracts and lead strategic planning for corporate real estate or the Travelers Championship. I am also responsible for our company’s Procurement, Community Relations, Event Management and Internal Investigations departments. In addition to all of that, I serve on several community and civic boards.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Everybody should try to secure an internship during college. You should do some research and identify specific companies that align with your interests. If you can secure an internship at one of these companies, it will give you a chance to experience that work environment and allow the company to get to know you.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Graduate
Economic Geography
Economic Geography
Certification/License
Advanced Professional in Real Estate and the Workplace
Advanced Professional in Real Estate and the Workplace
Certification/License
RPI
RPI
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Teachers:
"I was told that I was overweight and out of shape and would never be an athlete"
