Young Agent Award Winner: Christy Rose

Christy Rose

Age: 38

Agency: Avery Hall Insurance Group

Location: Salisbury, MD

Job title: Commercial Lines Department Manager, VP of New Business & Agriculture

Years in Industry: 17

Q. How did you get your start in the insurance industry, and how has your career progressed?

A. Before starting my career in the insurance industry, I worked in sales in a commission retail capacity. I decided to make a change that would offer better hours. I searched job listings and found an ad for a customer service representative for a local State Farm agency. I spent my first five years learning personal lines before switching to the independent agency side. I continued my career in personal lines for another six years before shifting to commercial. Since transferring to commercial, I have learned and grown in many areas – account management, agriculture insurance, new business marketing, forming relationships with carrier representatives and underwriters, and managing a small team. I now lead two departments and am a member of the management team for the agency.

Q. What does your typical workday look like?

A. My typical workday doesn’t have a routine! I spend my days researching insurance solutions, speaking with carrier representatives, meeting with team members, and assisting in problem-solving on accounts or office efficiencies.

Q. What’s your favorite part of your job?

A. My favorite part of my job is marketing new business. I love learning about local businesses and what new companies are coming to our area.

Q. What are your professional goals?

A. My professional goals are continuing my education and completing designations specializing in property-casualty and risk management.

Q. What advice would you share with someone just starting out in this industry?

A. I would give someone just starting in this industry the advice to find a mentor – or two! I have been fortunate enough to be surrounded by very accomplished, experienced, and educated insurance professionals for my entire career. I have learned and continue to learn from the best.

Q. Tell us about a mentor you’ve had and their impact on you.

A. I have had, and currently still have, so many! One of my early mentors took me under his wing almost immediately when I came to the independent agency side. He picked my brain just as much as I picked his. He had questions about how a captive agency worked, and I had a million questions about the independent agency world. We formed a silent agreement that we had each other’s back and an understanding that we would do all we could to help each other achieve our goals. Over time, our teaching moments turned more in-depth and specific. He gave me the stage with clients and trusted me. His confidence and trust in me boosted my confidence and my impact on clients. He taught me to speak confidently and never over-promise.

Q. How do you find work-life balance?

A. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a challenge. I am a wife and mother of two daughters. I have not quite figured out how to manage the best work-life balance other than turning off work when I am in the presence of my family. It is an ongoing struggle I have and continue to work on and be mindful about. Thankfully, I work for an amazing agency that offers flexibility and promotes a healthy work-life balance.