Maddie Beja: A Rising Star and The best-kept Secret in the Business World

Maddie Beja's journey into the insurance industry mirrors that of many professionals who find themselves drawn to its intricacies unexpectedly. Despite initially stumbling into the field, her remarkable accomplishments have rightfully secured her a coveted spot on IBA's Rising Stars list for 2023.

During her university years, Beja dedicated a substantial two-year period to the Risk Placement Services' (RPS) internship program. Post-graduation in 2016, she was presented with an opportunity to formally join the company, setting the stage for her remarkable career trajectory.

Reflecting on her introduction to the insurance realm, Beja emphasized the industry's status as the "best-kept secret" in the business world. Her lack of familial ties to the sector and the absence of a risk management program at her college meant that insurance was not initially on her professional radar. Accepting the internship at Risk Placement Services with limited knowledge about insurance, Beja's journey is a testament to the industry's ability to captivate individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Beja shared with IBA, "Our team often refers to insurance as the ‘best-kept secret’ in the business world. As someone without family in the industry and who did not attend a college that offered a risk management program, I can say I wholeheartedly agree with that statement. I accepted my internship at Risk Placement Services with hardly any knowledge of insurance. As a business student at a large university, I knew I wanted to do something in sales or consulting, but insurance was just not on my radar."

Recalling her initial connection with an RPS representative at a career fair, Beja submitted her resume and successfully secured a position with the company. Over the course of her seven-year tenure, she ascended from the role of an associate broker to the esteemed position of area vice president.

One of Beja's standout contributions lies in her instrumental role in expanding her team's book of business. The team witnessed substantial growth, surging from $2.2 million in 2016 to an impressive $5.5 million in the previous year. Looking ahead, the team is poised for further success, with a trajectory to reach $7 million by the close of 2023. Beja's consistent presence in RPS's Top Performers Club for five consecutive years underscores her unwavering commitment and exceptional performance.

Beyond her professional achievements, Beja is deeply dedicated to cultivating young talent within the insurance industry. Taking on the responsibilities of coordinating the RPS Internship Program and serving as a mentor in the company's internal career associate program, she actively contributes to the development of future professionals. Since 2020, Beja has also been an engaged member of the Wholesale & Specialty Insurance Association’s internship committee, demonstrating her commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the industry.