April's Select Employee (2022)
Meet the newest member of our leadership team, Brad Mulcahey, CFO, who joined us in October 2021.
“I never planned for a career in insurance, but after experiencing how the industry successfully navigated 9/11 and the 2007 Financial Crisis, I’ve come to appreciate the security a career in this industry affords. We can see this as well in the wake of the pandemic – these are serious shocks that left other industries decimated, but insurance is resilient since it’s such a crucial need in the world.“
Welcome to Berkley Select, Brad! How did the opportunity come about to join as our CFO?
I came to Berkley Select as part of the “Great Resignation” post-pandemic. After spending most of my career on the brokerage side, I knew I wanted to work for a carrier since the accounting and finance aspects are more interesting – particularly around claims and investments. After passing on other carrier opportunities, I quickly saw Berkley Select was the perfect amalgamation of the benefits of a smaller firm and the many advantages of a Fortune 500 company. I knew it was meant to be when I showed up to my first interview with Berkley Select’s President, Dan Spragg and saw that I was wearing the same shirt he was wearing.
You have over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. What is it about this industry that keeps you vested?
They say you’re either born into insurance or arrive accidentally – I’m definitely the latter. I never planned for a career in insurance, but after experiencing how the industry successfully navigated 9/11 and the 2007 Financial Crisis, I’ve come to appreciate the security a career in this industry affords. We can see this as well in the wake of the pandemic – these are serious shocks that left other industries decimated, but insurance is resilient since it’s such a crucial need in the world. Our challenge now is to innovate so we continue to be crucial to our clients and hand off the industry in better shape to the next generation.
What makes Berkley Select unique or different from some of our competitors and other companies you have worked for in the past?
Being part of a “Founder-Led” organization results in a unique environment to work in, as well as better experiences for clients and returns for shareholders. We operate with the freedom and flexibility of a smaller business, but with the benefits of scale and security usually seen in larger organizations. Additionally, there’s a noticeable ‘esprit-de-corps’ at Berkley Select that comes from everyone feeling ownership in the results and a say in the strategy.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
Finance is inherently intangible, so most of my hobbies deal with things that are tangible and working with my hands. I strangely enjoy the maintenance challenges of owning a 20 year old Land Rover, as well as a 40 year old motorcycle in the same garage. Last year, I expanded from wrenches to hammers by building an over-engineered treehouse for my son and this year I’m excited to take up hunting for the first time.
What is your favorite quote?
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle” – Plato