Monica Birchmore
Assistant client services specialist
Willis Towers Watson Management
Personal bio: I am 23 years old, born and raised in Vermont. Growing up in the country, I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy the outdoors–hiking, fishing, and kayaking with friends and my four brothers. Although I enjoy my small town, my adventurous side has led me to experiences around the world, from bungee jumping in New Zealand to scuba-diving on the Great Barrier Reef.
Professional profile: In 2016, I graduated from Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont, receiving a Bachelor’s of Science degree in accounting with a minor in finance. During my college career, I was exposed to multiple aspects of the accounting industry through internships at an accounting firm at a small local business, and finally at Willis Towers Watson within the captive management team. After completing my undergraduate degree, I joined Willis Towers Watson full time and now serve as an assistant client services specialist where I am responsible for accounting, regulatory compliance, monthly reporting and daily captive operations. I have also been studying to become a certified public accountant and recently received the designation.
How did you end up in the captive industry?
On an hour-long flight to Florida, I found myself discussing the captive insurance industry and my education background with the passenger to my left, who happened to be travelling on business for Willis Towers Watson.
Little did I know, this would be the start of my professional career. Before parting ways we exchanged information and a couple of months later, I received an email inquiring about my interest in joining the Vermont captive management team. During the third year of my undergraduate programme, I started an internship and was grateful to have it turn into a full-time position upon graduating. I thought coincidences like this only happened in movies.
What are your aspirations for your career in the captive industry?
My goal is to continue learning the ins and outs of captive insurance to become a resource for companies navigating an ever-changing business landscape. Additionally, I look forward to contributing a level of creativity through fresh ideas and seeing where this industry takes me.
What is your impression of the industry?
Captive insurance is flexible, challenging, impactful, and full of opportunity. It’s rewarding to know that we, as captive managers, play an important role in the financial success of our clients.
What advice do you have for someone considering a role in the industry?
Jump in with both feet and explore the many ways in which the captive industry can be a part of progressing your career. Ask as many questions as you can and never hesitate to bring your ideas to the table.
Jason Palmer, director, global captive practice, Willis Towers Watson Management (Vermont) “Monica Birchmore possesses a great combination of technical skills and drive for success that is helping to fuel her professional trajectory. Impressively, she has taken everything that has been thrown at her as a challenge to learn and understand the captive insurance business. Her strong potential early on, and willingness to take on any challenge, made Birchmore our top candidate for a full-time role upon graduation. We are proud of her success and understanding of the industry thus far at such a young age and so early in her career.”
