ACSR Spotlight - Ashley Kirkendall

Ashley Kirkendall with Insurance Management Services, Inc. (IMS), an independent agency in Richmond, comes from an insurance family. Both her father and brother have been in the business for many years. They are one of the main reasons Ashley pursued a career within the insurance industry. Ashley began her career in insurance while still attending Christopher Newport University in Newport News. During the summers, she interned at Workers Compensation Accounts Management Corporation, her family’s firm, specializing in workers compensation insurance. After graduating from college, Ashley moved back to Richmond and joined her brother at IMS. IMS writes personal and commercial lines specializing in contractors.

Insurance is very interesting to Ashley, which is why she wants to learn as much as she can about the industry. In 2009, Ashley earned her P&C license and continued with her studies from there. She earned both the personal and commercial lines ACSR designation in 2010. The knowledge gained from taking the ACSR classes gave her more confidence when addressing the questions and concerns of her customers. Ashley plans to obtain her CRIS & AAI designations soon. She also noted that she has gained very valuable industry knowledge and guidance through her discussions with members of IIAV, especially Danny Mitchell. "The staff has been very helpful as I begin my career," Ashley said.

Ashley thoroughly enjoys working in the insurance industry. Every day is different, which keeps her on her feet. In Ashley’s words, "I feel like no matter how many years I stay in insurance, there is always going to be something new to learn." The changing of insurance laws and underwriting policies forces her to stay up to date with current news and events.

Staying active in the community is also important to Ashley. She has been involved with her sorority Alpha Phi’s main community service event which focuses on cardiac care for women through the American Heart Association. She also is very interested in raising awareness about Multiple Sclerosis, which affected a close family member.

After a long day of work, Ashley looks forward to working off stress at the gym. She also enjoys waterskiing, boating, tubing and sun bathing at Lake Anna during the summer. She likes going to concerts, playing basketball and soccer and watching various sports.

Ashley looks forward to the many experiences and challenges of her insurance career. 

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