Rick Funke

About Rick Funke

I joined LIMRA right out of college doing research and programming. But after the first time I met with our members to show off our products, I knew I couldn’t stay behind a computer for my career. A knack for data became a passion for helping customers see how it can be put to use finding the right people—and that keeps the entire industry strong and ready to meet whatever challenges arise.The Global Business Development team that I lead focuses on talent solutions—finding, acquiring and retaining top talent. We consult with member organizations all over the world, advising them as they build out their sales and leadership teams. It’s truly a team effort to accomplish this. Luckily, if there is one thing I know, it’s how to hire great people.Our strategic guidance breaks down into three parts:1. consult with member companies to determine their unique needs in terms of talent acquisition and development2. present research-based solutions that offer the right products, processes or training to meet specific goals3. train member teams to ensure that each organization has industry-leading hiring, development and retention practices that encourage successful sales leadershipAfter all, our clients are not selling a typical product. They’re selling a promise: the promise that when you’re no longer with them, your loved ones will be taken care of. That’s a special thing, and it deserves special talent.When I’m not working, I have to admit it: I’m a simple man! Give me good food and time well spent with my family and I’m happy. My favorite ritual is our homemade pizza night. My wife makes the dough, I roll it out, we all do the toppings. Collaboration is good for business, but it’s even better for family dinners.Specialties include: cross-functional team leadership | recruitment and development | team building

Experience

1. International Head of Distribution Development

   Limra

   Jan 2022 — Present · Hartford, CT, US

   Lead Global Business Development team within LIMRA’s Talent Solutions department. Consult with approximately 75 financial services organizations in North America, Latin America, Asia and the Caribbean. Advise and guide these organizations, focused on identifying, attracting, selecting, developing and retaining sales and sales leadership talent.Manage teams driving sales, operations and onboarding with an emphasis on customer service as the overarching focus.Responsibilities have included:• designing enterprise-based sales recruitment and selection programs• advising clients on “best practices” recruiting and selection programs• speaking to member companies about LIMRA research findings to help aid their productivity• delivering sales effectiveness programs worldwide

Education

• Eastern Connecticut State University

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Psychology

  1978 — 1982

Skills

• Series 6
• Insurance
• Term Life Insurance
• Interviewing
• Talent Acquisition
• Financial Services
• Relationship Management
• Talent Management
• Underwriting
• Sales
• Financial Planners
• Recruiting
• Training
• 401k
• Customer Retention
• Disability Insurance
• Mutual Funds
• Fixed Annuities
• Sales Management
• Retirement Planning
• Financial Planning
• Strategic Planning
• Long-Term Care
• Interviews
• Leadership Development
• Management
• Team Building
• Retirement
• Employee Benefits
• Life Insurance
• Marketing
• Series 63
• Leadership