Sharen Groppell has spent over 30 years within the insurance coverage and threat administration trade.
As Government Vice President at Marsh McLennan Company in Houston, Texas, she leads the Development and Surety divisions, serving to companies handle dangers and shield their futures. However her story isn’t nearly enterprise—it’s about stability, management, and the fixed pursuit of progress.
A Profession Constructed on Experience and Adaptability
Sharen’s journey in insurance coverage began at Lockton Firms, the place she developed a powerful basis in consumer administration and threat evaluation. She later took on a management position at Elsey & Associates, serving as Chief Working Officer earlier than efficiently promoting the corporate in 2013.
Trying again, she says these years taught her the significance of adaptability. “In business, nothing stays the same,” she explains. “The market changes, clients’ needs evolve, and technology moves fast. You have to be willing to adjust, learn, and innovate.”
At Marsh McLennan Company, she applies that very same mindset, main groups and growing methods that assist companies within the development trade navigate complicated challenges.
The Significance of Stability
For a lot of professionals, discovering the suitable stability between work and private life can really feel inconceivable. Sharen believes stability isn’t about equal time—it’s about being absolutely current.
“When I’m at work, I give my full focus. When I’m with my family, I do the same,” she says. “It’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about setting priorities and making sure the moments that matter get your full attention.”
She has two sons, Garrett and Gregory, who are actually adults. Whereas her profession has all the time been demanding, she made positive to set boundaries early on. Household dinners, weekend actions, and time spent outside have been non-negotiable.
Setting Boundaries and Delegating
Sharen additionally credit setting boundaries and trusting others as key methods for sustaining stability.
“As a leader, I used to think I had to do everything myself,” she admits. “But the truth is, delegating makes you a stronger leader. It frees you up to focus on the bigger picture and helps your team grow.”
She emphasizes that clear communication is crucial. Her workforce is aware of when she is obtainable and when she has put aside private time. “Emergencies happen, but most things can wait. You have to trust that your team is capable and give them the space to succeed.”
Adapting to Change
Over time, each her private {and professional} life have modified. As her sons grew older, the best way she balanced duties shifted. “What worked when my kids were younger doesn’t apply now,” she says. “You have to be flexible and adapt as life evolves.”
She sees the identical want for adaptability within the insurance coverage trade. Expertise and knowledge analytics are reshaping threat administration, making it doable for companies to take a extra proactive strategy to mitigating threat. “It’s an exciting time,” she says. “The industry is evolving, and we have the tools to provide smarter, faster solutions.”
Classes in Management
Management is one thing Sharen takes severely. She has spent years mentoring others and inspiring ladies to pursue management roles in historically male-dominated industries like development and insurance coverage.
Her recommendation for ladies aspiring to management? “Be confident. You don’t have to prove yourself by working twice as hard. Your knowledge and skills are enough. Trust in that.”
She additionally believes in embracing vulnerability as a power. “Good leaders don’t have all the answers. They ask questions, listen, and surround themselves with people who challenge them to be better.”
Self-Care and Staying Grounded
Regardless of a demanding profession, Sharen makes time for herself. She enjoys mountaineering, spending time outside, and working towards Tae Kwon-do—a ardour that has taught her self-discipline, focus, and resilience.
“You can’t lead effectively if you’re running on empty,” she says. “Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.”
She encourages professionals to search out small methods to recharge. “Even a 10-minute walk outside or a quiet moment with a cup of coffee can help reset your mindset,” she shares.
Ultimate Ideas
Sharen Groppell’s journey is one among progress, adaptability, and objective. She has constructed a profitable profession whereas sustaining sturdy household connections and private well-being.
Her key takeaways? Set boundaries, delegate, embrace change, and deal with your self. “Success isn’t just about what you accomplish at work,” she says. “It’s about living a life that feels meaningful—both professionally and personally.”
