Michael C. Harter

Michael C. Harter

President and CEO/Principal

McConkey Insurance & Benefits

Michael Harter was named president and CEO/principal of McConkey Insurance & Benefits effective Jan. 1.

“The most rewarding part of my job is being told by clients that they take pride in having a relationship with our firm as a result of how we take care of them,” he said. “Our consultative approach ensures that we are working for them and they are more than a sale or a renewal to us. When we work to mitigate the total cost of risk and place the client in a position to make an informed decision, versus being sold a product, that creates a very strong bond.”

Harter said he’s inspired by young people in the insurance field. “The ‘next generation’ needs to know what we do. They continue to ask ‘why’ and ‘how.’ When the ‘why’ is always to guide and support a client better, that is a natural inspiration to those of us that have been around a while to do things better and make positive changes. We’re working diligently to bring younger people into the industry and it’s a lot of fun to see them working hard to add value to our organization.”

As to major influences, “I have had a lot of mentors,” he said. One was the music director of his church growing up. “Mr. S knew how to get the most out of people by encouraging them and pushing them out of their comfort zone. We always knew he believed in us and he would make sure we succeeded. I watched him get people to do amazing performances. It was his belief in you that made the difference. He was a powerful leader.”

This profile is part of CPBJ's Healthcare Power 30 list for 2021. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at cpbj.com or in our digital edition.