Rick Rodriguez
Select Underwriter Director Mississippi / Alabama
Travelers
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
After working in the restaurant and retail industry, I applied to a tiny newspaper ad for a data clerk, which ended up being an insurance agency.
After a few years and various roles in the same agency, I wanted to try the insurance company side and took a lateral role.
After working hard for a year, I wanted to try to apply for a Middle Market underwriter, however was turned down as I did not have a bachelor's degree.
For the next few months I worked close with my manager to show him I can be a successful Middle Market Underwriter. Three months later, applied for another Middle Market underwriting position.
In less than two years with the company I was promoted to Middle Market Underwriter with a territory in NYC.
Needing a bit more flexibility, I applied, for an Account Executive role at Travelers. Fast forward three years and a few months later. I was promoted to an Underwriting Director in MS / AL.
Education
High School
Freeport High School
Freeport High School
Career
Select Underwriter Director Mississippi / Alabama
Responsible for underwriting growth and profitability while developing / coaching staff through a shared vision
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Numbers
Technology
Helping People
Day to Day
As an Underwriting Director, I have a cool job. I get to develop, coach, mentor, share ideas, work with other peers and leaders. My day-to-day job is simply helping people do their best while keeping my team engaged. My team has new business, retention and growth goals all while maintaining profitability.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Do not be afraid to take on a lesser role in any company. If you want to succeed you can; it just takes work and great leaders.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Peers:
"Don't become a manager or leader, you will be stressed all the time and face disappointment, plus, without a bachelor's degree your chances of achieving your aspiration are slim to none."
Challenges I Overcame
First-Generation Immigrant
Interviewed By
