Larisa Carr
South Windsor,CT
Summary
Experienced healthcare executive with a strong background in the employee benefits industry. Possesses a deep understanding of the complexities and rising costs of insurance. Guided by a profound commitment to supporting organizations, families, and individuals during their most vulnerable moments with expertise in both the fully insured and self-funded markets.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Program Director
Eastern Connecticut Health Insurance Program
08.2012 - Current
- Responsible for the operational framework and administration of a self-funded employee benefits health plan providing benefits to approximately 4,500 members of 4 municipalities, 4 school districts and 1 regional education service center
- Primary responsibilities include financial reporting, banking and investment management, plan implementation, health carrier and stop loss carrier negotiations and projections
- Point person on escalated claims, provider/network or billing issues requiring resolution
- Oversees and manages the employee wellness program and employee assistance program; serves as fiduciary for the employee wellness fund
- Provides a strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders for collaborative problem solving.
- Analyzes program data for informed decision-making to improve outcomes.
Account Executive(Hybrid)
United HealthCare
02.2010 - 07.2012
- Hybrid Account Executive responsible for new business sales and account management of small/mid-market accounts in Connecticut and New York
- Achieved 90% account management retention goal for two years on and averaged 30-42% revenue growth through new business
- Attended United Healthcare University, Minnesota, Leadership Certification Training
- Front facing client engagement and negotiations
- Exceeded sales targets consistently by identifying new business opportunities and creating customized solutions for clients.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on product offerings, ensuring accurate representation during sales pitches or negotiations with clients.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop comprehensive marketing strategies, resulting in increased brand awareness and revenue growth.
Owner/Operator
Green Valley Benefits
12.2008 - 01.2010
- Independent Consultant with 100% retention
- Procured and managed a small group and individual book of business
- Responsible for all plan implementation, enrollment, administration and account management
- Responsible for end to end customer service and claim resolution
- Contract negotiations and market analysis through RFP process
- Introduced and managed preventative, wellness incentive plans for small employer groups
- Planned and implemented employee health fairs
New Business Sales Executive
ConnectiCare
01.2002 - 11.2008
- Responsible for new business development in the individual and small group markets for Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York
- Target growth goals exceeded throughout Connecticut leading to expansion into New York
- Exceeded small group and individual sales goals for three years in excess of up to 40%
- Introduced and organized employer preventative and wellness committees/initiatives
- Worked closely with marketing teams to develop promotional materials tailored specifically for target audiences.
- Mentored junior sales associates, sharing best practices and fostering a supportive team environment.
- Maximized sales efficiency by tracking performance metrics and adjusting tactics accordingly.
- Used consultative sales approach to understand and meet customer needs.
Junior Sales Associate
ConnectiCare
09.1998 - 01.2002
- Provided administrative support to internal new business sales team and external broker-consultant partners
- Prepared financial rate proposals, enrollment materials, member information packets and prepared presentations for external clients
- Obtained health producers license in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York in 2002
- Played a pivotal role in achieving team goals by sharing best practices with colleagues and supporting their growth and success.
- Embraced opportunities for professional development by attending workshops, conferences, and networking events to sharpen sales skills.
- Shadowed sales professionals to gain deeper insight into best practices and strategies for maximizing sales revenue.
- Monitored competitor activities and pricing strategies to compare performance.
Education
No Degree - American Government And Politics
Wesleyan University
Middletown, CT No Degree - Business Administration And Management
Quinnipiac University
Skills
- Project Management
- Active Listening
- Relationship & Partnership Building
- Strong Verbal & Written Communications
- Public Speaking
- Strategic planning
- Operations oversight
- Budgeting and financial management
Educational Experiences
- American Government and Politics, Wesleyan University, 1998 - 2000
- Business Administration and Management, Quinnipiac University, 1996 - 1998
Military Background
United States Army National Guard, 143rd FSB, 01/01/89, 12/31/00, Computer Engineering Technician, Sgt. E-5, Non-commissioned Officer, Member of Camp Edwards Repelling Team (1995-1997)
Key Aptitudes
- Proficient in managing complex, escalated issues
- Strong focus on managing outcomes through active listening
- Effectively creates collaborative team driven environments
- Strong relationship and partnership building skills
- Excellent verbal, written, and public speaking skills
Certification
Licensed Producer – Accident & Health 2002 – Present
Licensed Producer – Life, Credit & Travel 2024 – Present
Timeline
Program Director
Eastern Connecticut Health Insurance Program
08.2012 - Current
Account Executive(Hybrid)
United HealthCare
02.2010 - 07.2012
Owner/Operator
Green Valley Benefits
12.2008 - 01.2010
New Business Sales Executive
ConnectiCare
01.2002 - 11.2008
Junior Sales Associate
ConnectiCare
09.1998 - 01.2002
No Degree - American Government And Politics
Wesleyan University
No Degree - Business Administration And Management
Quinnipiac University
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