In her current role as Senior Manager, Insurance Operations at Valley First Insurance, Shelly Maurer is responsible for the leadership and strategic direction of nine insurance locations throughout the Okanagan – Similkameen region.
Like many in our industry, Shelly literally fell into her career. A short conversation with a friend set her life on the path of insurance. “I had just finished college and wasn’t sure what my next step was going to be, for the moment I just wanted to get a job. An acquaintance working in insurance suggested I give it a try. I dropped off a resume at a local brokerage and went home to do a bit of research. I ordered my Fundamentals of Insurance manual a few days later and started home study. Soon after, I got a call from the agency and started in a data entry position. It was April 1, 1992…and the rest truly is history”
Shelly has held almost every position within the insurance agency environment, from that first clerical job to training, sales and various administrative positions. She moved to Penticton and joined Valley First head office in her current capacity in 2005.
Shelly is most grateful to the guidance and mentorship provided to her over the course of her career which has given her the skills and the confidence to grow into her leadership role.
“I’m still in insurance today because every day is a challenge, and because I have been lucky enough to be given many opportunities and responsibilities throughout my career.” Shelly embraces the variety and challenge of the business and feels fortunate to have developed both professionally and personally by her experiences so far.
Shelly has a diploma in Business Administration and her Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker designation. She has served on the board of directors for the Credit Union Insurance Services Association since 2004. Shelly sought election to the CUISA board to represent non-lower mainland brokers and bring a better understanding of regional issues to the forefront. In her time on the board, she has been honoured to work with many accomplished industry leaders and her experiences on various sub committees and insurance company broker councils have developed a broader appreciation of the relevant issues affecting the entire industry.
Giving back to her community is also one of Shelly’s core values; her 10 years on a fundraising committee for BC’s Children’s Hospital have provided her a sense of personal fulfillment which comes from knowing what each of us can do to make things better for others.
Shelly grew up in the small town of Salmon Arm BC . The youngest of 6 children, she attributes her strong work ethic to the influence of her parents and the experiences of being raised on a small farm where everyone had responsibilities.
From the age of seven Shelly was a member of the local 4H horse club and was involved competitively in showing horses throughout her teens. The club instilled responsibility and accountability, while providing learning opportunities for personal growth in areas such as public speaking that have proven to be useful throughout her career.
Away from work, Shelly also enjoys traveling, staying active at the gym, playing volleyball and spending as much time as possible enjoying the unique lifestyle of the sunny Okanagan.