Janet Hoernke

What is your position at UNC-Chapel Hill, and how long have you been associated with the University?

My position is Risk Manager and I joined the department in April of 1999.

How did you initiate your career in this field or what led you to your current position?

I was working part-time at an insurance company while attending UNC-Greensboro. Upon graduation, I remained in the insurance industry. One of my best friends (who ultimately retired from UNC) sent me the position opening for Risk Management. I came aboard in 1999 and never left the department.

Which sectors of the University does your role impact, and in what ways does it contribute to those areas of work?

My role affects the entire University as we manage the insurance portfolio and serve as the liaison between campus and the NC Department of Insurance and our state’s agent of record. This contribution occurs from consultations to acquiring insurance coverage and processing claims.

Describe what you love most about your job.

I love the variety and assisting my campus colleagues with new vehicle purchases, international travel requests and coverage inquiries. The most interesting aspect of my job is how we support the University’s mission globally. I’m proud to be a part of this global outreach as my office administers the international travel insurance program. It is important that our colleagues are insured to complete this important work.

What advice do you have for those interested in entering a career in your line of work?

Risk Management and Insurance are an evolving field with the industry moving toward an Enterprise Risk Management model. Always learn the basics of insurance and risk management, especially the terminology.