When Barbara Murray sends you her “long form” resume, it depicts a career ranging from claims professional, to consultant, to claims executive, to consultant again with milestones and accomplishments to which we can’t begin to do justice in our Spotlight article. We can give you some flavor of what propels her enthusiasm for her work in the industry and in support of AIRROC.
What key lessons have you learned over your career?
Read the contract, know the contract, and pay attention to what people say. I worked for someone who required anyone entering his office to discuss a claim to have fully read the policy and to understand its application. He in turn would listen to your presentation and raise relevant issues for discussion. This protocol ultimately became part of my management strategy. I find that it promotes learning and drives the right decisions.
If you could have a second career, what would it be?
I find teaching to be particularly rewarding. Throughout my career, I have been drawn to opportunities to develop educational programs and generate thought leadership. The prospect of developing talent, leaving a legacy, and influencing the industry is very exciting.
What do you like best/worst about your current position?
I love the diverse issues and wideranging client base that I deal with; I enjoy having the opportunity to assist organizations in enhancing operations across a variety of functions from claims management to reinsurance collections and transactions, while achieving desired outcomes. The challenges for me are relatively minor and revolve around carrying out various internal administrative processes that are necessary, but not as much fun as identifying where a bordereaux reconciliation went wrong.
What industry publications do you read on a regular basis and what educational sessions or conferences do you attend and why?
I have a news application on my phone that allows me to follow specific industry publications as well as specific topics of interest across a variety of sources. I find that to be more efficient than simply following any one publication. As to educational sessions, I prioritize attending both ARIAS and AIRROC programs. They are designed and facilitated by industry experts and provide high-quality education at reasonable fees. More importantly, they offer opportunities for dialogue and negotiating transactions with other companies.
What is your favorite quote?
PACE, Positive Attitudes Conquer Everything.
What is your favorite leadership manual/book?
Who Moved My Cheese. It is a simple depiction of our need to be able to adapt to change in order to be successful.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
That I produced an award-winning music video in the late 80’s and toured with a band called “Toy Haus”. The video was titled: “Just for Funk”.
For the full article, refer to page 14 in the Summer 2016 issue. https://www.airroc.org/assets/docs/matters/airroc%20summer%202016%20vol%2012%20no%202.pdf
