It was 1986, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. During recess I made my first sale, unloading a pack of Bubble Yum. The following week, armed with huge Ziploc baggies full of all the flavors, I expanded distribution to my bus route. My classmates couldn’t get enough. The week after that, I was called to the Principal’s office. While he appreciated my “opportunistic nature” I had become a “distraction” on the bus. And (for reasons he didn’t explain) it wasn’t “fair” to the other kids.At the ripe old age of 12, I had my first run-in with bureaucracy as a salesperson. Unfortunately, it was only a precursor of the corporate sales prevention initiatives I would experience early in my career at the global insurance brokers!Fast forward to today, I’m focused on helping great talent in the insurance industry – passionate about their clients – find their edge and own it.I’m Chairman & CEO at Gibson – a growing, employee-owned Top 100 US Broker, with offices in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Utah. We’re expanding over the coming years as we look forward to operating in 20 markets by our 100th anniversary in 2033.We prioritize the employee experience at Gibson, knowing we have the power to help people break through to their next level, reach their full potential, and thereby do more for their family, clients and community. We embrace flexibility and celebrate team victory.As CEO, I realize my words and actions set the tone for our culture at Gibson. Those who know me will tell you I take an abundant view on life and business, and I’m a competitor. I’m a natural connector. I’m a family guy, married to my high school sweetheart. I’m optimistic and resilient. I’m a strategic thinker – and while capable of the details – I much prefer the big picture.I’m grateful to have the opportunity to lead such an incredible group of employee-owners at Gibson. While admittedly biased, our focus on people has made us a prime destination for great talent looking for a place where they can spend more of their days outwardly focused on their clients.Send me a message. I’d love to connect!