Yan Veytsman on Navigating Catastrophe Coverage and Career Advice for Young Brokers

Come see the Stars! As part of our ongoing coverage of the best brokers in the commercial insurance space, Risk & Insurance®, with the sponsorship of Philadelphia Insurance, is expanding its coverage of the Rising Stars, those brokers who represent the next wave of insurance brokering talent.
Look for these expanded profiles on the Risk & Insurance website and in your social media feeds throughout the year.
Below is a conversation with Yan Veytsman, senior account executive, Marsh, and a 2024 Renewable Energy Power Broker winner.
Risk & Insurance: In which commercial lines are your clients struggling to put together adequate coverage?
Yan Veytsman: The most challenging and controversial line of coverage is natural catastrophe property coverage.
There is much misalignment in the industry about the appropriate and adequate levels of coverage.
R&I: Where do you see generative artificial intelligence making a difference in your team’s work?
YV: Certainly basic work functions, such as billing, certificates and schedules are the most obvious areas where AI can step in and take work off our plates.
The next best area would be answering routine client questions.
Ideally insurance professionals should spend the majority of their time focused on solving complex, strategic client concerts.
R&I: What advice would you give to a younger person that is seeking to break into this industry?
YV: Focus on these three qualities:
1) Attention to detail: We work with complex, detailed legal contracts (i.e. insurance policies) all day. Therefore seemingly little, insignificant details make a big difference and can cause major headaches to clean up down the road. Therefore, it’s best to slow down, ask questions, understand the big picture and get it right the first time.
2) Take initiative: Do not wait to be asked to work. Recognize where you can add value, jump in and take ownership of a workflow or assignment.
3) Adaptability: In managing a group of clients, understand that that same style, attitude, approach, and cadence can differ with each team and client. Therefore, showing an ability to adapt your style will help you best cater to your client’s needs. &