Following Instincts Served Her Well

Liz was unsure if a post–secondary education was in her future when she entered her senior year at Pennsbury High School.

“I seriously considered becoming a teacher at some level,” she said. “but I wanted a long–term career with a stable company that valued me as an employee, saw my potential, and would help me realize it.”

Liz joined NJM Insurance Group as part of her school’s cooperative program that assisted students in getting work experience to help them choose a career path. She spent the mornings in class and the afternoons in NJM’s Premium Audit Department, where she pulled and refiled reports.

“That experience was monumental,” she said. “I am forever grateful to the program and NJM for giving students like me a chance to learn life lessons. Although I worked part–time, I was held to the same standards as a full–time employee, including performance reviews that were part of my school grade.”

Liz continued working at NJM after graduation, moving to Central Files before becoming a Workers’ Compensation underwriting processor. Within two years, she was promoted to a senior processor with more responsibilities, which included creating reports for senior leadership and interacting more with other departments.

“Every step helped to layer my knowledge and skills and mold me into the employee I am today,” she said. “I could make suggestions and implement changes to enhance processes and productivity. The best aspects of each job were the lessons learned and the diverse experience.”

In 2015, Liz was promoted to supervisor, where she oversaw a staff responsible for handling escalated complaints or requests from customers and educating them on NJM policies, procedures, and underwriting practices.

“When I shifted from an individual contributor to supervisor, I was able to help and positively influence others on a more formal level,” she said. “Being organized, being positive, helping my staff be positive, and being a part of business changes were the skill sets I brought to the job.”

Three years ago, Liz earned another promotion to administrator, where she oversees a staff of 34 employees. She credits her success to those who generously shared their time and experiences.

“Mentors were a significant part of my journey and success,” she said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without their guidance, constructive feedback, and trust. Exploring new tasks and ideas also helped prepare me for each step. It was not always an easy path, but being true to myself and staying focused on my end goals has helped me reset when needed and keeps me moving forward in my journey.

Lifelong learning has been instrumental in Liz’s career ascension. She obtained the Associate in General Insurance designation. Also, she is pursuing a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation, which is considered the most prestigious certification in the property casualty insurance industry.

“I followed my instincts and a less traditional career path,” she said. “I knew If I found the right fit in a company, I would be motivated to pursue my educational goals and grow with the company. The insurance–based courses I’ve taken specific to my journey have helped me gain insight and knowledge. It has helped strengthen my abilities and make me the best leader I can be. Plus, I accomplished my passion to teach others — just not in a school or classroom setting.”

Liz found success by following her instincts and advises others to trust theirs.

“Be honest with yourself with your chosen career,” she said. “That is where you will get your most fulfillment. Be realistic about what you want to accomplish. Engage or research professionals in the career you are interested in to gain insight. And put yourself out there and take chances.”

Are you considering a career move? Join us!

NJM Talent Acquisition Team
NJM Insurance Group
Careers@njm.com

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