Our People: Meet Program Manager Mollie Echols

Zurich ProgramsArticleDecember 8, 2025

Headshot of Mollie Echols We invited Mollie Echols of the Zurich Programs team, to share more about her background an experience with us.

Q: Can you share a little background about yourself.

Sure, I was born and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina. I’ve been with Zurich for a little over 15 years. My career at Zurich started in the Denver office, where I spent four years, and then I moved to Atlanta where I’ve been for the past eleven years.

Q: Can you give us some insight into your role as a Program Manager?

As a Program Manager, I oversee a portfolio of specialty insurance programs underwritten by our Program Administrators (PA). My primary responsibility is to ensure that each program aligns with our underwriting guidelines in terms of profitability, structure, and underwriting quality. I also serve as a liaison between our organization and the program administrator, advocating for their needs and facilitating collaboration across key internal teams – including claims, regulatory filing, and product development – to ensure they receive the support necessary for success.

Q: What do you like about your job, and why is it a good fit for you?

What I enjoy most about being a Program Manager is that it blends the technical side of underwriting with the relationship-building aspects that are so important in a market-facing role. I spent the first nine years of my career as a market-facing underwriter, where I developed those skills in a fast-paced, transactional environment. Transitioning into this role has allowed me to take a more strategic view—managing a portfolio and being accountable for the overall performance of a book of business. It’s been a rewarding shift and a natural next step in my career.

Q: What do you like most about working in Programs?

The people, without a doubt. We have a fantastic team here at Zurich, with a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels. It’s been a supportive environment to learn from and grow within. One of the unique aspects of working in Programs is that we also get to collaborate closely with our external Program Administrator colleagues, which adds another layer of connection and perspective to the work.

Q: To what behavior or personality trait do you most attribute your success?

I'd say a combination of tenacity and perseverance. I'd attribute both of those traits to being involved in athletics for most of my life. Whether the goals are personal, or career related, the fact remains that you need a certain amount of doggedness to achieve success. If you're willing to put in the hard work, the results will come.

Q: What is the best advice you were ever given?

“Don’t be afraid to fail—it’s just another learning opportunity.” That advice has stuck with me over the years and helped me approach challenges with a growth mindset. Some of the most valuable lessons come from the moments that didn’t go exactly as planned. As someone once said, experience is what you get when you don’t get what you planned for—and I’ve found that to be true time and time again.

Q: Your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?

One of my favorite ways to unwind is taking my dog for a walk around the neighborhood. Getting outside and moving helps me reset and shake off the stress from the day.

Q: What’s your guilty pleasure?

.I don’t usually get into reality TV, but somehow, I’ve become completely hooked on Love is Blind. I’ve watched all the US and UK seasons and can’t get enough!

Q: What’s your favorite thing you like to do outside of work?

I’m a proud aunt to two nephews—ages 13 and 4—and an 8-year-old niece. They keep me entertained with everything from band concerts and dance recitals to bike rides around the neighborhood. There’s nothing I enjoy more than spending time with them and watching them grow. It’s a joy to be part of their lives.

Q: What’s an item on your bucket list?

In college, I majored in Ancient History and have always been fascinated by prehistoric civilizations. One of my bucket list dreams is to travel through Egypt and explore the pyramids and other significant cultural and historical sites. It would be incredible to experience firsthand the places I’ve studied and admired for so long.

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