Deb Callahan

Job title: Director of Personal Lines

Agency: Element Risk Management

Location: West Chester, PA

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

I went from a successful marketing manager to a stay-at-home mom for 12 years. My biggest professional accomplishment was proving to myself that I could return to the workforce – even a new industry – and find success again. I attribute this success to the leaders who believed in me and challenged me to recognize my abilities as an individual and a leader. I am lucky to have those same leaders ahead of me today.

What words of wisdom would you offer young women just beginning their insurance careers?

Be confident and trust yourself. Don’t let the fact that others have years of experience put self-doubt in your mind. Lean into these teammates and learn from them. Ask lots of questions; there is never a stupid one. You will encounter many situations that are brand new. Failure is part of your growth, so don’t be afraid to make mistakes.