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Kudos to (Soon-To-Be-Retired!) MABE Risk Management Officer John Magoon
John Magoon, MABE Risk Management Officer for the past 20 years, recently shared he will be retiring this fall. John first joined MABE in 2004, and since then has focused on risk management services for the members of MABE, focusing on those school systems that are members of MABE's insurance programs.
John's gain of a well-earned retirement is MABE's loss, and we wish him nothing but the best as he transitions to the next chapter in his life. His problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, innate creativity, passion for the industry, and genuinely kind demeanor will be sorely missed. You can reach John at (443) 603-0399 if you'd like to join us in wishing him well.
John was good enough to provide a few thoughts during his final full-time weeks at MABE, which we're glad to share with MABE Scoop readers.
Q: John, why did you originally decide to join MABE?
A: MABE was one of the property insurance accounts I managed with my prior employer, Royal & Sun Alliance. When they decided to exit the United States Insurance market, I needed a new position and was fortunate to already know Steve James and MABE. Being a product of Maryland public schools myself and having a daughter entering public school at the time, I felt I could have a positive impact on public education. I learned early on that through pooling and effective risk management we can "shift school assets from buying insurance to educating children," and I still feel strongly about that today.
Q: What would you say the most rewarding part of your work with MABE has been?
A: I'd say working with and personally getting to know so many dedicated people who support public education. Every year more and more demands are placed on the staff who operate public schools, and economic supports often don't keep pace. I hope that sharing my risk management experience, the uncertainty about risk, and what drives insurance costs has helped our member Boards of Education.
Q: Is there a particular achievement that really stands out for you from your time at MABE?
A: A couple of things -- I'm proud to be part of such a relatively small organization which really focuses on its members, and works together as a team to develop meaningful resources. The stability of MABE over the years speaks highly of how well managed MABE is. In terms of what I consider a core achievement, I'd say developing useful resources for members -- including incentive and grant programs as well as loss analysis tools, promoting risk management committees, and setting goals, since I believe that "nothing moves unless it's measured."
Q: If you have one piece of advice for readers based on your expertise and experience at MABE, what would that be?
A: Be open-minded to new solutions and work together as a team. Know your goals, communicate, and be intentional. I often say we're looking for "unique solutions to common problems," and I feel that working together we really can find those unique solutions!
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