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LIMRA Announces 2018 Rising Stars of Distribution Under 40

WINDSOR, Conn., March 15, 2018 - LIMRA today announced the 10 winners of its contest to recognize Rising Stars of Distribution under 40 in the financial services industry. The contest searched for innovative and dedicated individuals who are making a difference in Distribution.

“These future distribution leaders will help shape the industry in the years to come. Their skills and abilities are essential for organizations to be able to keep pace and compete today and in the future,” said Patrick Leary, corporate vice president, Distribution Research at LIMRA. “We are excited to celebrate the successes of these young professionals.”

The winners will be honored at a reception during LIMRA’s Annual Conference, which will be held Oct. 28-30, 2018, in New York City. 

To view the winners and read excerpts from their nominations, please visit:  2018’s Rising Stars in Distribution

Congratulations to all of you — and thank you for driving us forward!

Brady Aarssen

Assistant Vice President, Business Development Strategy
“Brady passionately leads Great-West Life forward, examining new and emerging distribution methods with a keen understanding on the important value advisors provide to group plan sponsors and their plan members.” – excerpt from nomination

Jessica Bush

Director, Client Relationship Center - Service
“Jessica is a strong proponent of associate development and promotion. Through her efforts - focusing on training, coaching and development within her department - CRC Customer Service Associates are sought after candidates and very successful in advancing their careers at Western & Southern.” – excerpt from nomination

David Goettelmann

Lead Manager - Project Management,
Chief Sales Office
“David brings a unique and creative approach to business at AXA. He is in tune with the needs of both headquarters and our advisors.” – excerpt from nomination

Tony Govender

Branch Manager
"Under Tony’s leadership, the Port Shepstone branch has grown and has positioned itself as a formidable entry-level market segment life office within our Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) region. Tony constantly assists the regional office on all aspects pertaining to the business unit.” – excerpt from nomination

Nathan Jacobson

Vice-President, Life Distribution
“Nathan is a strong advocate for wholesaler technology and is constantly looking for innovations in the industry that can move Allianz Life’s business forward.” – excerpt from nomination

Ellen Kottke

Senior Product and Sales Consultant
“Ellen is a thought leader who creates engaging experiences that develop sales knowledge and skills for Allianz Life’s wholesalers, producers and customers.” – excerpt from nomination

Judy Lai

Manager, Distribution Talent Development
“Judy created the foundation for an adviser development program at Penn Mutual, which created training and development tracks for our next wave of financial advisers.” – excerpt from nomination

Nicole Miller

New Client Acquisition Program Manager
“Nicole led a team of marketers at Western & Southern Life to create a small business marketing program centered on lunch and learns. This program has now expanded field wide and is picking up momentum.” – excerpt from nomination

Craig Molldrem

Senior Partner & Financial Advisor
“Craig coaches and mentors multiple advisors and interns simultaneously in several North Star Resource Group office locations. His leadership has been essential to both the success of the Lone Star division and to the success of those he mentors.” – excerpt from nomination

April Weaver

eWholesaler Greater Northeast Territory
“April is one of Pacific Life’s top Internal Wholesalers in our Independent Product Channel. She was selected to our Sales Academy class of 2017, a program designed to prepare up and coming talent for external wholesaling positions. She is a mentor and influential leader to her team and a top salesperson in her territories.” – excerpt from nomination.

Media Contacts

Catherine Theroux

Director, Public Relations

Work Phone: (860) 285-7787

Mobile Phone: (703) 447-3257

ctheroux@limra.com

Erica L. Iorillo

Public Relations Consultant

Work Phone: (860) 285-7875

Mobile Phone: 860-371-8638

eiorillo@limra.com

Louis Sklenarik

Public Relations Specialist

Work Phone: (860) 298-3920

lsklenarik@limra.com

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