I’d like to take this opportunity to detour from my normal, hopefully not-too-boring, technical Property Casualty blog topics to share a recent experience that not only galvanized my commitment to this career journey but honestly changed the way I think and feel about my employer, my peers, my family, and my role in all of it.
As a recent graduate of Holmes Murphy University, our shareholder education program, reaching this moment in my career is more than a milestone. It has been a transformative experience reshaping how I view leadership, ownership, and my place in the future of commercial insurance broking.
Our program isn’t just about learning the mechanics of being a shareholder; it’s about stepping into a role that demands vision, accountability, and a deep understanding of what it means to be privately held in a competitive industry. As graduates, we emerge not only with sharpened business acumen but with a renewed sense of purpose and pride in the legacy we’re helping to build.
The Power of Private Ownership
Private ownership for a commercial brokerage is a strategic advantage that fosters agility, long-term thinking, and a culture of care. Holmes Murphy, as a truly privately held brokerage, stands on its own as a unicorn that prioritizes relationships, innovation, and sustainable growth. During our shareholder education program, we explore how this ownership model empowers employees to think like owners by making decisions that benefit clients, colleagues, and the company alike without outside influence. It’s a reminder that our success is shared, and our impact is lasting.
A Meaningful Investment in People and Purpose
Holmes Murphy’s commitment to developing shareholders is a testament to its belief in the power of people and the perpetuation of our model. The investment, both financial and philosophical, reflects a deep-rooted dedication to cultivating leaders who understand not just the business, but the values that drive it. From an expertly curated curriculum to involvement from mentors and company leadership, every element of HMU is designed to empower participants with clarity, confidence, and connection. For those of us fortunate enough to take part, the experience evokes a profound sense of humility and pride—humility in recognizing the trust placed in us, and pride in knowing we are part of something bigger: a legacy of excellence, ownership, and shared success.
Forging Relationships That Transcend the Classroom
One of the most rewarding aspects of Holmes Murphy University is the relationships forged along the way. Whether collaborating on our projects, engaging in spirited discussions, having a few laughs over dinner and drinks, or sharing (often deeply) personal experiences and insights, the bond built with fellow participants is uniquely invaluable. These connections extend beyond professional networking. They become sources of inspiration, support, and camaraderie. In an industry built on trust and service, these relationships reinforce the human element that makes private ownership so powerful and nurtures confidence in those highly talented peers equally invested in our collective achievement. From seasoned executives to emerging shareholders, there’s a palpable drive to elevate the industry, serve clients with integrity, and build a workplace where people thrive.
A Graduation Celebration to Remember
The culmination of the program was marked by a graduation ceremony that was nothing short of legendary. From the moment the triumphant bagpipes began to echo through the hills of Waukee, to the fireworks that lit up the evening sky, every detail was designed to celebrate the journey we’d taken together.
Hearing the tributes paid to each fellow graduate by his or her leader or advocate left me in sheer awe of their achievements and character. And when AC/DC’s electrifying riffs filled the air, it wasn’t just music…it was a declaration of arrival. Laughter, cheers, and high-fives shook the stage as peers and leaders came together in a moment that felt both surreal and deeply earned. It was more than a party; it was a shared memory, a snapshot of pride and joy that will live on in the hearts of every graduate.
What a Seat at the Table Really Means
Graduating from Holmes Murphy University comes with a profound realization that we now have a seat at the table. This sentiment isn’t symbolic, nor is it centered on ego or even influence—it feels much more like a call to action. With that seat comes the responsibility to understand the nuances of running a commercial insurance brokerage, from financial stewardship and strategic planning to cultural leadership and client advocacy. The program demystifies these complexities, equipping participants with the tools and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the firm’s aspirations and help perpetuate this unique organization for the next generation of leaders and owners.
While the festivities may be over, nothing ends with graduation. They’re called commencements for a reason: new beginnings. In the words of the great AC/DC: “It’s a Long Way to the Top if You Want to Rock ‘N Roll!”
And we’re just getting started.
If you’re ready to join a company that invests in their employees, take a look at our current job openings.
