Over the next few months, we’ll be sharing a series of information to get you introduced to Garth Wicinsky, who will become SECURA’s next President & CEO effective April 26, 2022. We know you are curious about his personal background, time at SECURA, vision for the company, and much more, so watch for more emails, videos, and newsletter content to come as we answer your questions!
To get started, here’s a quick Q&A with Garth on his background.
Tell us about yourself!
I am so excited and humbled to take on this opportunity to lead the organization. I’ve been blessed to have a 25+ year career with SECURA. I started my career in HR, and over time took on additional responsibility, most recently becoming SVP and Chief Administrative Officer in 2017. In that role, in addition to leading HR, I also oversee Marketing, Research & Development, and Agency Training.
I married my wife Monica on New Year’s Eve in 1998. She and I have two children. Our son Mason just started college at UW-La Crosse this fall, and our daughter Jamison is a junior in high school.
What are some of your hobbies?
As a family, we enjoy all things outdoors, with an affinity for the water (boating, jet ski, kayak, paddle board). Did you know the DNR really has no way to keep up with a 1200cc jet ski? Just joking…I love to pheasant and duck hunt, and enjoy the fall bow hunt. Our family has taken an annual camping trip with friends for the past 10 years, and we have been to Canada, Maine, North Carolina, and the National Parks along the way---and yes, driving and pulling campers every time! I’m also a big brother to an 11-year old through the BBBS program.
Share your thoughts on the independent agency channel.
While I haven’t been out in the field as much as our great Sales team, I have always seen the incredible strength of our independent agency partners. It’s because of our agency partners that we have consistently reached new levels of growth. Our strength today is the result of both our agency partners and our 900+ associates showing both dedication and belief in each other and our organization. I am fully committed to the independent agent channel as the sole method of our distribution.
What is your leadership style?
I have considered servant leadership to be the style that most represents how I lead. Those who work with me would say I’m inclusive, decisive, and empower the team to do what they need to do for us to hit short- and long-term goals. I’m lucky to be surrounded by a great group of leaders and have worked closely with others on the Executive Team for many years (some for upwards of 20!), so I know the strength of leadership we have at SECURA. I value the collaboration, transparency, and relationship-building among that team and among everyone at SECURA, and know that will not change under my leadership.