Todd Dzen is director of product management for group life, disability and Select Benefits supplemental health products for Symetra’s Benefits division. With nearly 20 years in the business, Dzen has held roles in claims, sales support, account management and product at carriers like Aetna and AIG before joining Symetra three years ago. Dzen is also a member of the LIMRA Workplace Benefits Advisory Board.
Get to know Todd:
What do you like most about working for Symetra?
The culture. Symetra’s VTS (Value, Transparency and Sustainability) principles permeate all that we do both internally and externally. I feel that my contributions are valued here and feel encouraged to recognize the contributions of others at every opportunity.
What do you like most about working in group life and disability and Select Benefits?
I love that the products and benefits provided by Symetra offer such important protection for our employer clients and their employees. Group life, disability and supplemental health products touch individuals during some of the most challenging times in their life, including the loss of a loved one, a disability that keeps them from work, or a significant medical challenge.
What's been the biggest change in the industry you've seen in your career?
My background is in medical insurance, so the biggest changes I’ve seen all track back to the passage of the Affordable Care Act. The legislation had far-reaching implications to our industry and the types of insurance products we sell.
What's the most important quality in an insurer?
Trust. Every interaction with an external constituent is an opportunity for Symetra to earn trust and deliver value. Our policyholders need to trust that Symetra will be there for them when called upon. And in the employee benefits business, we need to earn the trust of our employer clients and broker partners as well.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by the opportunity to collaborate with my colleagues at Symetra to make a difference in the lives of our customers. The financial protection we offer is extremely important and we should all be proud of the work we do at Symetra.
What’s the most important thing you've learned in your career?
Success is best achieved though collaboration. Everyone has something important to offer and it’s crucial that we listen to everyone’s perspective and leverage each individual’s strengths.
Any last thoughts to share?
Symetra is great! I feel so fortunate to be a part of this organization.
Fun Facts:
- First job: I washed dishes at a pizza place. I managed to flood the entire kitchen, so needless to say this wasn’t my calling in life!
- Favorite vacation spot: Any place close to water, mountains and a pool table.
- Favorite music genre: Rock. Technically grunge, as someone who came of age in the '90s. Pearl Jam is my favorite band.
- Hidden talents: I’m quite adept at juggling.
- Favorite book: “The Stand” by Stephen King
- Favorite movie: “Goodfellas” – I love all mafia movies, but Goodfellas is the best.
- Pets: Two cats, both rescues.
- Favorite dessert: Pie. Pie > cake in all instances.
