“Construction is the foundation for the past, present, and future success of our nation”
What does your role as Regional Surety Leader for Westfield entail?
As Regional Surety Leader, I lead Westfield’s Ohio surety team. Our territory covers the state of Ohio and western Pennsylvania, and we have team members located in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. In addition to talent development and overall leadership of our team, I work directly with agencies in northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania to develop, maintain, and grow the surety programs of our mutual contractor clients. In my role, I have the opportunity to wear numerous hats that include leadership, teambuilding, financial analysis, marketing and sales, and negotiation. No day is ever the same, which ensures a career in surety is consistently interesting and exciting.
How did you end up in the construction industry?
I landed in the industry quite unexpectedly. During my senior year at the University of Akron, I noticed a job posting on the university career services website titled “Bond Representative.” I did not know anything about surety bonds at that time, but after reading the job description, I knew immediately that I was interested in surety as a career. I grew up with numerous family members in various roles within the construction industry, and I’ve always had the sense that contractors are “my people.” Having the opportunity to partner with contractors using both my technical financial analysis skills and people skills in equal combination has been a perfect career choice for me.
“Every contractor and every situation is unique, and there is always a story to be heard.”
What do you like best about your job?
The best part of my job is the sense of accomplishment I feel when providing the bonds needed to enable our contractor clients to secure projects. Construction is the foundation for the past, present, and future success of our nation, and it is a privilege to partner with the men and women who are building America every day.
What advice do you have for others who are interested in a career like yours?
My best advice for others who are interested in pursuing a career in surety is to listen well. Every contractor and every situation is unique, and there is always a story to be heard. Successful surety underwriters listen carefully to that story and find solutions that make sense.
