PREVIOUS POSITION: New York-based executive vp overseeing the national middle-market division and client advocate practice at Willis North America.

GOALS FOR NEW POSITION: I want to penetrate the book of business we have. We have clients that have been with us for a long time. I view that as a sign that we are doing a great job for them because the retention rate is high. What I would like to do is develop and design innovative products for them to better serve them.

CHALLENGES FACING THE INDUSTRY: As the market hardens, the challenge will be placing appropriate programs and services for companies. In a soft market, anyone can broker anything. In a hard market, you need the experience of solid brokers with a good background who know how to navigate the market and find the best deals for clients.

ADVICE: It’s a great field to be in. The best thing you can do is get to know the products very well. Form close relationships with the markets.

OUTSIDE THE INDUSTRY, A DREAM JOB: I have a law background, so it would be litigation. I like challenges and I like to think on my feet.