Compensation Programs, Inc. (ComPro) (www.comproins.com) is a health insurance brokerage firm that specializes in offering products to employer groups and individuals to best cover their health insurance needs. ComPro has distinguished itself in the Lincoln market by providing professional, experienced service with integrity and a strong commitment to excellence. Chris McPike is the Vice President of ComPro.
Tell us a little about your business. – My husband, Brian, and I own Compensation Programs, Inc. We provide health insurance products for employer groups and individuals/families.
How did you get started in the business? – Brian and a partner started the business in 1988. My background is in accounting. I was working as the controller at KOLN/KGIN-TV, but ComPro was growing and I had to decide whether to stay in broadcasting or move to the insurance business! I joined ComPro in 2000.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – HealthCare Reform; understanding the law and its impact, then implementing the changes with our clients. It continues to evolve as more phases of the law become effective and as regulatory decisions are made.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Initially, it was passing the CPA exam. Now it is building a successful family business that represents our personal and professional values.
Tell us a little about your family. – My husband Brian and I have three adult children, two wonderful in-law kids, and four ‘perfect’ grandchildren.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Sit on the beach with a good book. However, there is a shortage of beaches in Nebraska so I must improvise with a great chair on my deck.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I’m from Missouri. M-I-Z-Z-O-U!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Respond, do not react. This applies when interacting with people and when making business decisions.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Classy.
Which talent would you most like to have? – To be a skilled dancer.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Travel agent; I love to travel.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I travel to Mexico twice a year with a group from church. We partner with three organizations there to support the spiritual, educational, and physical aspects of the daily life of people in their communities. The experience is life changing. I still need to learn Spanish.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – For me there is a significant amount of both personal reading and business reading. Personally, I read for pleasure…nothing that causes me to think too hard. I like John Grisham, Nicholas Sparks, and Janet Evanovich
What is your favorite local restaurant? – LaPaz. Best chips and salsa in town!
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. I admire her strength and courage.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached at our office, (402) 488-5100, via email at chrismcpike@comproins.com, or visit our website at www.comproins.com.