I have a very diverse and unconventional career path. I spent nearly 10 years in direct sales, and another 10 years in sales operations—one of my key responsibilities was designing and managing sales incentive plans. This experience came in handy when my last company needed a new Total Rewards leader.

The skills I honed from sales compensation design transitioned seamlessly into designing executive compensation plans. I've been managing equity compensation programs as part of my role for the past 20 years

The initial draw for me was really the global nature of GEO. When I started, Gallagher was rapidly expanding internationally. At the time, everything was in-house, and our existing international footprint was small. GEO provided me with so many best practices and education on new markets.

As for my time on the board, the highlights have definitely been being part of launching exciting and important initiatives like Fellows and Future Leaders, as well as the Global Share Plans Ranking Report.

I also always enjoy my time as Lead Judge of the GEO Awards. The GEO Awards program plays a vital role in spotlighting innovative solutions to common issues, fostering unity and alignment among companies striving to overcome shared obstacles. It provides a valuable platform for networking, learning, and celebrating achievements as a community. It's exhilarating being part of the process.

As the new Chair of the Board, my number one priority is supporting Gabbi and the GEO staff to create memorable and valuable experiences for our members. We need to keep excelling at what we do best. 

Beyond that, I want to leverage what we're doing in some local markets with chapters and education and expand the best ideas globally. 

Lastly, I'm focused on chapter and membership expansion.

I envision the use of equity compensation increasing. From what I’ve seen, they are effective recruiting tools and differentiators.

There's also a trend toward less dependency on qualified plans and more creative designs. 

Additionally, M&A activity continues to drive innovative plan designs and process improvements.

We are poised for great growth opportunities! Our biggest challenge is to find ways to continue meeting members’ needs in such a dynamic environment. As we grow, it's crucial not to lose sight of what’s made us successful over the years.

Growth comes with its own set of issues—we need to ensure we maintain that intimate experience with our members and grow thoughtfully. It's essential that our members continue to see value from GEO.

I’m excited about the prospect of expanding through chapter growth in several new countries across the regions. I encourage members to get more involved—chapters are excellent vehicles for bringing feedback back to GEO.

I also encourage more members to join the Issuer Advisory Council, which is a great platform for sharing the challenges our members are facing and how GEO can help.

Additionally, we can leverage the most successful programs and events currently in place at the chapter or regional level and bring them to other areas across the globe to meet member needs.

First and foremost, learn all you can! Be inquisitive and seek exposure to new areas. Be open to new opportunities.

Additionally, develop your financial skills—learn to read and understand financial statements. This knowledge will be invaluable as you advance in your career.

Know your business and be a problem solver. Continuously develop your analytical and presentation skills and practice them often.