This week we’re learning more about Ester Scanga of Belay Advisory.
What inspired you to enter the industry?
My inspiration for joining the insurance industry goes way back (not to age myself), but this is truly the best industry to be in! I am inspired by helping clients design their plans and taking care of their employees, solving problems, and always learning something new.
Our industry has been through a lot of changes, but my passion to succeed and make connections remain unchanged.
Who is your mentor?
I was fortunate to be mentored by so many great people in the London Life Edmonton Group Sales Office which was led by the great Jeff Macoun! Those were the days! I will always be appreciative of the great foundation, experience and team environment that was built. This spirited my love and joy in building a career in our industry and the clients we help serve. John Goode was one of those managers and he carried on the same great mentoring. I am so grateful to have landed at Belay Advisory and for the opportunities in allowing me to share my knowledge, skills, and experience.
What are some things that people don’t know about you?
There might be a few things that people don’t know about me such as I like Italian wine. Okay, I’m Italian! I also ran the Boston Marathon and have three beautiful grandchildren that I absolutely adore!
What is the biggest lesson that you have learned in the business?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned in the business to date is that the relationships we build and the people/clients we serve are the keys to our success. Nothing ever remains the same and no two situations are alike, but sticking to our beliefs and instincts and being open-minded has helped me remain resilient and more accepting of changes in our industry and the relationships and opportunities that it can create.
Life is a gift and I hope I still have lots to learn.
Do you have insights about the industry that you would like to share?
My thoughts about our future are that we will continue to see change. We must create opportunities for our clients to help them differentiate their plans, provide solid solutions in an easy, realistic and affordable manner. The demands for more flexibility, self-service automation and mental health issues will propel us to be more creative as we help our clients stay on top of the changing landscape. I believe that the BA knowledge and shared experiences will help us provide valuable solutions to meet these changing needs.
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