2026 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Marissa Heater, USI Insurance Services

“Marissa is diligent, organized, and always does the right thing for the client. She is tenacious with underwriters to get the best result. Eager to learn, she uses her knowledge as a building block to produce better outcomes. Marissa is easy to teach and embraces feedback positively. She communicates often, on point, and has a high sense of urgency. She truly cares about the clients she serves. She share’s her knowledge to develop younger team mates.” 

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role?

I didn’t intend to land in insurance, but it was the way things worked out for me. What I thought would be a corporate stepping stone to get in as a receptionist, turned into an insurance career almost 15 years since then. I believe everything happens for a reason, and I am at my current role as a result of how things turned out in my mid-twenties. I wouldn’t change anything.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of?

I am most proud of how far I’ve come in the five years at USI, which is by far the most progress I’ve made as a professional in the years I’ve been in the industry. I think becoming someone who my other colleagues look up to or call for help is something I never thought would be a reality.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you?

Christine Chipurnoi has been, by far, the most influential person in my career. Her determination and passion for getting the best result across the finish line is something I’ve never seen before. Being a part of a team that is led by such a powerful woman is definitely something that I believe has kept me grounded. She WANTS you to learn and succeed, not just be a working and pushing papers. Her advice - Learn all you can.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry?

The trend of insurance being a roller coaster in general solidifies that we are an industry that is 100% needed. The market is forever changing yearly and evolving.