At Lockton Companies, Laura Closs serves people through data

For Laura Closs, VP, consultant at Lockton Companies, developing a benefit plan is a bit like solving a puzzle. 

Whether it's helping a self-funded client or one with a high turnover rate, coming up with creative solutions ties together her data-based approach with a more personal touch. As a former accountant, Closs often felt dissatisfied working with just numbers and itched to interact with real people. While previous jobs always tried to silo her into either an analyst or HR role, at Lockton, she gets to combine her love of both people and finance. 

"At Lockton, not only do I get to get out in front of clients and teach them, but I also get to do all the background work with the numbers and really get my hands dirty," says Closs. "I could literally spend days looking at data, but it's always a good idea to talk with the team as well." 

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When creating benefit offerings for clients, Closs takes a deep dive into the data to come up with the best possible plans for all parties. Following one client's acquisition — which would lead to a five-time increase in revenue for the company — Closs worked to increase voluntary benefit offerings that would appeal to employees at both original organizations. 

In addition to her day-to-day work, Closs frequently mentors young associates through the company's Benefits Academy. While many fresh recruits are well-versed in the world of finance, she says, most don't have experience in the intricacies of benefits. For her, mentoring is a way to help the next generation achieve their goals and  become leaders. Lockton — which has a library of resources and training — makes the mentoring process swift, she says. 

Closs is a valued resource for clients and associates at the firm, too, says Francesca Redshaw, Lockton's director of benefits. She recalled an instance when Closs stepped in to help a new associate struggling at an open enrollment meeting. Closs finished the presentation and later offered tips and feedback for the future. With Closs's help, the associate eventually felt equipped to host the remaining open enrollment sessions. 

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Her leadership at the company is well-recognized even when she's not present day-to-day: While recently on maternity leave, Closs was promoted to VP consultant. She's already looking forward to diving into new changes in the benefits space on her return. 

"In benefits, everything is changing every day, so it's really great," says Closs. "It keeps you on your toes, and keeps things interesting."