ACSR Spotlight - Heather Perry

Throughout college, Heather Perry of Dyeco Insurance Services worked in the insurance industry, actually at the same agency she is at today. She began working at Dyeco Insurance Services in May 1999 as a receptionist and administrative assistant. Once Heather finished college in 2001 she decided to go full time at the agency. She thoroughly enjoyed working with her co-workers and was very happy with what she was doing at Dyeco, so this was an easy decision to make. Currently, Heather is a personal lines agent specializing in Auto and Homeowner, in addition to being the company bookkeeper.

Heather received her Property & Casualty license in 2001. She then obtained her Life, Health & Annuities license in 2003. With both licenses in hand, Heather’s boss suggested that she take her insurance studies to the next level by taking ACSR classes. She felt like the ACSR designation would make Heather not only a better employee, but also a more vital resource for the agency’s clients. Heather completed all the necessary coursework and earned her ACSR designation in 2010. Since earning the designation, she has seen many benefits. In her own words: "I feel more confident in myself and my ability to do my job well. I feel like I am more able now to answer my insureds' questions on coverage and policies because I have more insurance product knowledge. I feel like I am able to handle clients' problems with more ease than I did before. I also feel that this confidence and knowledge is shown to my clients and potential clients, to the point that they feel more comfortable keeping or writing their business with me, because they feel that they will get the service they want and deserve."

Working in the insurance industry allows Heather to work with a variety of people. Being able to help her clients and provide them with the best coverages possible is very rewarding. No one realizes the true importance of insurance until they have to use it. Heather also enjoys being a knowledgeable and helpful resource for her clients when it comes to insurance.

Outside of work, Heather stays busy with her hobbies, family and friends. She is an avid photographer and actually has her own side business, Hapyma Photos. Her photography business specializes in family photos, weddings, etc. She also enjoys dancing and takes a tap class once a week. Currently she is trying to create a Daisy Girl Scout troop in her area since none exists and she wants her daughters to get involved with this organization. Heather is active with her church and the activities they take part in to help out the community. Each year, she helps her agency in an annual car show they attend that promotes awareness of MDA.

Family time is very important to Heather. She has been married to her wonderful husband Kevin, who also works at the agency, for eight years. Together they have two amazing little girls, Madilynn, 6, and Loraly, 2. All together they enjoying going to parks, playing games, making crafts, laughing and enjoying one another’s company. Their house is always full of life, love and noise, something Heather would not change a bit.

Is there an ACSR in your office who goes above and beyond in the insurance industry or in the community? If so, let IIAV know. Send your nominations to Kristina (kpreisner@iiav.com) at 1-800-288-4428. Nominations must be submitted by an agency principal, manager or supervisor working at the employee’s agency/company.

Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia