Building Meaningful Careers in Insurance
The insurance business offers a unique opportunity for individuals to build meaningful, lifelong careers regardless of their starting point. As Marc Adee, CEO of Crum & Forster (C&F), reflects on the company’s 200-year journey, he highlights the importance of attracting and developing the next generation of talent. Adee will share more insights at the 2025 Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) Global Conference in New York.
Insurance: A Great Career Choice
To develop future leaders, the industry must first attract top talent. Despite its reputation for being “boring,” insurance is a challenging and dynamic field. C&F’s history shows that the industry has evolved significantly over time and continues to offer new opportunities. The company has developed extensive self-study programs, making it accessible to anyone willing to learn.
Beyond formal education, providing clear pathways for growth through real-world experiences is crucial. Careers in insurance are built on a foundation of progressive experience, training, and challenging assignments over many years. To help employees rise above the crowd, C&F encourages them to develop an “And Plan” – getting involved in activities beyond their day jobs. The Brand Ambassador program is one example, where employees learn about C&F’s products, develop networking skills, and represent the company at industry events.
Decentralization Creates Opportunity
C&F’s decentralized business unit structure empowers teams to solve problems and drive results. By giving decision-making power to those closest to customers, the company fosters engagement, retention, and innovation. This approach allows colleagues in the field to identify opportunities for improvement and implement changes that directly impact their clients’ needs.
Building a Strong Hybrid Work Culture
As the workplace continues to evolve, C&F is embracing a hybrid work structure. To maintain a strong company culture, the organization is intentional about creating opportunities for connection. They host events that bring teams together, foster cross-functional networking, and create a sense of belonging among employees. Quarterly new employee onboarding events are one example, where new hires from across the country come together with colleagues and leaders.
Cultivating Philanthropy
The insurance industry takes pride in providing a social good through its core product. C&F encourages employees to lead grassroots efforts by supporting causes they are passionate about. An employee-led committee drives charitable giving and volunteerism, selecting organizations to support and rallying colleagues to get involved. Initiatives like the IICF’s Month of Giving unite insurance professionals in service, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to giving back.
Engage and Prosper
As the insurance industry looks to the future, collaboration and knowledge-sharing will be key to success. By working together and sharing ideas, professionals can build a brighter future for the industry. For those interested in learning more about C&F’s history and vision, a digital copy of Marc Adee’s book, The Once and Future C&F, is available at https://www.cfins.com/c&fbook.
