Denise Campbell | President & Founder | Marsh
Denise Campbell’s journey into the insurance industry began unexpectedly. With a degree in music, she initially had no plans to enter the world of commercial insurance. However, seeking stability in her career, she accepted a role as an administrative assistant at the home office of an insurance carrier. Her team primarily focused on multinational offerings, an area she knew little about at the time. She initially intended to stay for just a year or two before returning to the music industry, but that was sixteen years ago. Over time, she found herself drawn to the challenges and opportunities the insurance field presented, making it her long-term career. At EliteX, we are proud to have Denise Campbell as part of the edition: Impactful Women in Insurance, 2025.
Like many others in her generation, Denise did not set out to build a career in insurance. She describes her entry into the industry as accidental, but what kept her there were the people and the constant learning opportunities. No two days in the field were ever the same, and she enjoyed the intellectual stimulation of encountering new situations daily. The ever-changing nature of the industry made it an exciting and rewarding career path for her.
“We all need to give ourselves grace as we navigate this balance.”
Throughout her career, Denise has faced challenges, though she does not believe they are necessarily unique to being a woman. She acknowledges that her background as a Jamaican-American and her dynamic personality have sometimes made her stand out in professional spaces where she was often the only Black person or the only woman. Early in her career, she sometimes felt the temptation to shrink rather than take up space, but she made a conscious effort to embrace her identity and be confident in her abilities. She also recognizes the impact of Imposter Syndrome, a challenge that many professionals face, particularly when they find themselves in underrepresented groups. To counter this, she stresses the importance of building a strong support network—a personal “Board of Directors” composed of mentors, friends, and colleagues who provide guidance and encouragement.
For Denise, her most significant achievements are reflected in the success of others. She finds great satisfaction in knowing that she has positively impacted someone’s journey, whether through mentorship, guidance, or simply by sharing her experiences. Seeing others grow and thrive as a result of her influence is what she considers her greatest accomplishment. The role of women in insurance has been evolving, and Denise sees this progression continuing. Women have made significant strides in leadership positions, and she believes that the challenges facing the world today require diverse perspectives to find effective solutions. Ensuring that all voices have a seat at the table is crucial in addressing the needs of both clients and society at large. She remains optimistic about the future and the growing influence of women in shaping the industry.
“Seeing others grow and thrive as a result of my influence is my greatest accomplishment.”
When it comes to succeeding in insurance, Denise emphasizes the importance of intellectual curiosity, active listening, and the ability to connect the dots. Clients often present symptoms of a problem, and it is up to insurance professionals to diagnose the underlying issues. Thinking outside the box, understanding macroeconomic trends, and maintaining a customer-centric approach are all essential skills. In her view, the ability to adapt and approach challenges with a broad perspective is what sets successful professionals apart.
Balancing personal and professional life is a continuous effort, and Denise believes that true balance is rarely achieved in a strict sense. There are times when work requires the majority of one’s attention, while at other times, personal life takes precedence. Understanding priorities and adjusting accordingly is key. She acknowledges that burnout can sometimes creep in, serving as a reminder to take a step back and prioritize self-care. As life evolves, so do priorities, and she encourages others to give themselves grace while navigating this ongoing balance.
Denise’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and commitment to both professional excellence and personal growth. Her unexpected entry into insurance turned into a fulfilling career where she not only found stability but also made meaningful contributions to those around her. Her journey highlights the importance of embracing new opportunities, remaining curious, and building a strong support system to navigate challenges. Through her experiences, she continues to inspire and uplift others in the industry, proving that success is not just about individual achievements but also about the impact made on the lives of others.
“I’ve never had the same day twice, and every day I learn something new.”
