Kirt Walker

As the CEO, I wake up every day feeling great about helping others and working as part of an unbelievably talented team that's focused on protecting people, businesses and futures with extraordinary care.In a world where change is happening at an accelerated pace, our team is committed to not only helping our customers keep pace but also make smart decisions about their protection needs. I like to think of what we do as “skating to where the puck will be” – helping people plan ahead to meet life’s challenges. It may sound a little lofty, but it’s truly noble work.My management philosophy comes down to what I call the “Four Ps.” The first P is always People. Then it’s Planning, Performance and Partnerships. On a day-to-day basis, you’ll find me: - Generating solutions to customers’ needs - Developing leaders and associates across Nationwide - Driving performance measures for the organization - Ensuring effective, efficient operationsI also serve on a number of industry and community boards – commitments that I've enjoyed for many years. I joined the Red Cross after my hometown in Iowa was wiped out by a tornado in 1979. I saw first-hand what a positive impact the Red Cross makes. Today I'm proud to serve on the Red Cross Board of Governors. I also believe strongly in the value of professional development and advancing our profession, so service as a trustee on The Institutes board, a property & casualty risk and insurance knowledge group, is a natural fit. Additionally, I serve on the Board of Directors for Catalyst – an organization dedicated to accelerating progress for women through workplace inclusion. Beyond volunteer work, I’m really passionate about fly fishing. There’s something magical about tying your own flies and using them to land a trout. What I really love about the sport are the skills you need to “match the hatch.” To figure out what kind of fly the trout are biting on that day takes tremendous focus and patience. And whether you’re standing in a stream or in an office, both are critically important skills.