Tell me about how you became a risk manager?

I started working in a claims office (Kemper Insurance) years ago, in National Accounts, as a transcriber.  Imagine that! I stayed with this insurance company (which eventually sold off their products and became a TPA) for 16 years, - and by the end of my tenure there I had promoted to Business Development.  After exposure to all facets of claims, underwriting, and marketing with this TPA I left the claims arena and went to work for a national healthcare company (St. Joseph Health System) in Risk Finance Department.  This allowed me to connect with other Risk professionals on the employer side, and the opportunity to work for City of Orange fell into my lap. After 8 years at City of Orange, I took the leap to City of Huntington Beach and after 1 year I promoted to Risk Manager.   

What are the rewards you experience professionally by being a PARMA member?

The educational and networking opportunities are invaluable!  I believe PARMA has set the bar for organizations that seek quality education and information to assist those with everyday challenges they may experience in the workplace.