I was extremely excited to start this firm in 1985. But I quickly learned several things that were not very encouraging. First, I learned that everybody already had a consulting actuary and, typically, were very happy with him or her. Second, I learned that no one had ever heard of me. “Why are you here?” became a familiar question. Immediately I realized that in order to be successful I must find ways to positively set myself apart from the established competition.
I began to realize that although every insurance organization might have actuaries employed or may employ consulting actuaries that there was nothing that would exclude me from developing a relationship with anyone if I brought something to the relationship that no one else did: Ideas. Down-to-earth, real-world ideas. I could offer specific ways to help individuals in ownership or decision-making roles accomplish their primary objective. This is, of course, making money.
I realized to accomplish this I needed to help a company perpetuate and grow its existing programs, as well as to offer innovative and cost-effective product ideas that could be quickly implemented. And that is exactly what I have been doing for the last 25+ years.
My father taught me all things right and good can be accomplished through desire and determination. That is, desire and determination, when focused on achieving that which is right and good, can overcome any shortcoming in education, intellect, and other personal traits. He was right. My desire and determination, coupled with treating clients the way I would want to be treated, has been a hallmark of our success. I strive, to the very best of my ability, to recommend actions and programs that are truly in my client’s best interest, regardless of the impact it may have on my firm.
Since inception, I have never forgotten this immensely important role in a successful relationship. Ideas to help AB&A’s clients enhance their success come in many different packages – enhancing or fine-tuning existing products, opening doors to new markets or new product lines, acquisitions, and new relationships. In some cases I have found it just as important to explain to management why, in certain companies, eliminating specific behavior or programs can help a company right its own ship. These are but few a few of the strategies, initiatives, and programs that my firm offers. These ideas and actions are intended to help our partners achieve, and hopefully surpass, their goals and expectations, whatever they may be both now and in the future.
Ultimately, the success of any company (an insurance company or a consulting firm) is determined by the quality of its most important asset – its people. A number of years ago a client told me that one thing I do really well is hire great people. Though I may be biased, I concur. As you explore our website, I hope you will pay particular attention to the individual bios. These people, this team, are the heart and soul of AB&A. Their intellect is high. Their education outstanding. Their breadth of experience speaks for itself. Whether serving insurance companies or fraternal benefit societies, state departments of insurance, or marketing organizations, this group in Austin can “plug in” to the role required and function in a superior manner.
Our mission statement, “constantly pursuing expeditious perfection,” goes to the heart of who we are. Getting it right, doing so on time and on budget are the fundamental traits that have led to success year-over-year since 1985.
Our pursuit of perfection always has been, and always will be, done in a courteous manner, fully recognizing the fact that we earn our clients' trust and the privilege of continuing to work for them each and every day.
I began to realize that although every insurance organization might have actuaries employed or may employ consulting actuaries that there was nothing that would exclude me from developing a relationship with anyone if I brought something to the relationship that no one else did: Ideas. Down-to-earth, real-world ideas. I could offer specific ways to help individuals in ownership or decision-making roles accomplish their primary objective. This is, of course, making money.
I realized to accomplish this I needed to help a company perpetuate and grow its existing programs, as well as to offer innovative and cost-effective product ideas that could be quickly implemented. And that is exactly what I have been doing for the last 25+ years.
My father taught me all things right and good can be accomplished through desire and determination. That is, desire and determination, when focused on achieving that which is right and good, can overcome any shortcoming in education, intellect, and other personal traits. He was right. My desire and determination, coupled with treating clients the way I would want to be treated, has been a hallmark of our success. I strive, to the very best of my ability, to recommend actions and programs that are truly in my client’s best interest, regardless of the impact it may have on my firm.
Since inception, I have never forgotten this immensely important role in a successful relationship. Ideas to help AB&A’s clients enhance their success come in many different packages – enhancing or fine-tuning existing products, opening doors to new markets or new product lines, acquisitions, and new relationships. In some cases I have found it just as important to explain to management why, in certain companies, eliminating specific behavior or programs can help a company right its own ship. These are but few a few of the strategies, initiatives, and programs that my firm offers. These ideas and actions are intended to help our partners achieve, and hopefully surpass, their goals and expectations, whatever they may be both now and in the future.
Ultimately, the success of any company (an insurance company or a consulting firm) is determined by the quality of its most important asset – its people. A number of years ago a client told me that one thing I do really well is hire great people. Though I may be biased, I concur. As you explore our website, I hope you will pay particular attention to the individual bios. These people, this team, are the heart and soul of AB&A. Their intellect is high. Their education outstanding. Their breadth of experience speaks for itself. Whether serving insurance companies or fraternal benefit societies, state departments of insurance, or marketing organizations, this group in Austin can “plug in” to the role required and function in a superior manner.
Our mission statement, “constantly pursuing expeditious perfection,” goes to the heart of who we are. Getting it right, doing so on time and on budget are the fundamental traits that have led to success year-over-year since 1985.
Our pursuit of perfection always has been, and always will be, done in a courteous manner, fully recognizing the fact that we earn our clients' trust and the privilege of continuing to work for them each and every day.
L. Allen Bailey, FSA, MAAA
Founder & CEO
Founder & CEO
