Alumni in 5 - Luis H. Gomez

One graduate, five questions, go ... 

Luis H. Gomez in a suite and tie

Luis H. Gomez '06 (Management Information Systems) 

senior vice president of digital products and partnerships & global head of product management SMB, Marsh McLennan

How did your education prepare you for what you are doing today?

My education at SUNY Old Westbury, where I pursued a B.S. in Management and Information Systems, has played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing my career. The program equipped me with a robust foundation in management principles and information systems, providing a versatile skill set that has proven invaluable in the professional landscape.

The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum allowed me to explore various facets of technology and business, empowering me to transition between roles seamlessly. As a graduate, I started my career as a software developer, leveraging the technical skills I acquired during my education. The program's emphasis on practical applications and real-world scenarios enabled me to adapt quickly to the demands of the industry.

As I progressed in my career, I seamlessly transitioned into roles such as business analyst and project manager, leveraging the managerial and analytical skills honed during my education. The comprehensive understanding of information systems architecture and business processes gained at SUNY Old Westbury has been instrumental in my ability to navigate complex projects and make informed decisions.

Ultimately, my educational journey laid the foundation for my current role as a product management leader. The strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills cultivated during my time at SUNY Old Westbury have been pivotal in steering product development initiatives and ensuring their successful implementation.

In essence, SUNY Old Westbury has been the crucible in which my professional mettle was forged. Stripped of its solid educational foundation, my trajectory through diverse career roles would have been markedly different. This program's acute relevance to the dynamic landscape of management and information systems serves as a cornerstone and a catalyst for my professional triumphs. It has opened doors to new opportunities and given me the insight to meaningfully shape and elevate every organization I've been a part of, defining my career journey with purpose and impact.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment or recent professional accomplishment to date?

My greatest professional accomplishment has been as a senior vice president of digital products and partnerships and global head of product management SMB at Marsh McLennan. During my tenure, I led international efforts to build, manage, and scale the digital insurance platform across diverse markets, including the US, Canada, LATAM, and APAC.

One notable achievement was championing the development of the first Marsh-Canada digital mobile app. This innovative solution allowed customers to obtain a quote and purchase a policy on any device within 10 minutes, contributing to a remarkable 75% increase in client satisfaction. Additionally, I developed and executed a comprehensive technology roadmap for the SMB business, resulting in a 20% increase in operational efficiency and a 30% increase in new business.

My role also involved effectively integrating new payment providers, CyberSource and First Insurance Funding, optimizing our ecosystem. This strategic initiative led to a 50% boost in payment processing, significantly improving our clients' payment experience with frictionless options.

Furthermore, I was critical in directing and executing product and technical due diligence, spearheading M&A activities, forming strategic partnerships, and orchestrating joint growth ventures for Digital. This enabled the seamless introduction of cutting-edge product capabilities into emerging markets.

These accomplishments showcased my leadership and strategic planning skills and demonstrated my ability to drive innovation and positively impact key business metrics.

What programs do you support at SUNY Old Westbury, and why?

My involvement centers around the Office of Alumni Affairs and the School of Business, which hold significant meaning. As an alum, I've had the privilege of being a special guest in various settings, including marketing classes and business club events. In these engagements, I share my personal journey with students, aiming to provide them with a real-world perspective on success and growth post-graduation.

The School of Business, in particular, has played a crucial role in my professional and personal development. It's not just about the academic knowledge; it's about the supportive environment that fosters learning and growth. My experiences at SUNY Old Westbury have paved the way for numerous career opportunities and personal blessings.

Contributing back to the institution instrumental in my journey is incredibly rewarding. I firmly believe in the power of education to transform lives, and supporting these programs allows me to give back and be a part of the ongoing success stories at SUNY Old Westbury.

Do you have advice for current students?

Before I share the specific pieces of advice, let me introduce you to my overarching principles. These ten invaluable insights are meant to guide you, as current students, through your journey with wisdom, resilience, and a focus on personal growth.

  1. Stay Curious and Keep Learning:

    1. Embrace a curious mindset and stay open to learning beyond your coursework. 

    2. Explore new topics, industries, and technologies to broaden your knowledge and skill set.

  2. Build a Strong Network:

    1. Connect with professors, classmates, and professionals in your field of study.

    2. Attend networking events, conferences, and industry meet-ups to expand your professional circle.

  3. Gain Practical Experience:

    1. Seek internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs related to your field of study.

    2. Practical experience can often be as valuable as academic knowledge and can set you apart in the job market.

  4. Develop Soft Skills: 

    1. Communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are crucial in any career.

    2. Engage in group projects, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities to enhance your soft skills.

  5. Set Goals and Plan Ahead:

    1. Define both short-term and long-term goals for your academic and professional journey.

    2.  Create a plan outlining the steps you need to take to achieve these goals.

  6. Seek Mentorship:

    1. Identify mentors, either within your academic institution or in the professional world.

    2. Mentorship provides valuable guidance and insights as you navigate your educational and career path.

  7. Adaptability is Key:

    1. Be adaptable and open to change. The professional landscape is dynamic, and flexibility is a valuable trait.

    2. Embrace new technologies and methodologies that are relevant to your field.

  8. Balance Work and Life:

    1. While it's important to focus on your studies and career goals, don't forget to maintain a healthy work-life balance and stay fit.

    2. Take breaks, engage in hobbies, and spend time with friends and family.

  9. Utilize Resources:

    1. Take advantage of the resources provided by your educational institution, such as career services, workshops, and support programs.

    2. Online platforms and communities can also offer additional learning resources.

  10. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity:

    1. Don't be afraid to take risks, and don't let failure discourage you.

    2. Learn from setbacks, adjust your approach, and use them as steppingstones toward future success.

Everyone's journey is unique, so find what works best for you and stay committed to your personal and professional development.

What is your favorite memory of your time on campus?

Achieving the milestone of obtaining a college degree was a profound accomplishment, marking the distinction of being the first in the family to pursue and complete higher education. Fueled by a dedicated focus on supporting the family, this achievement brought personal and familial pride. Serving as a powerful catalyst for positive change, it inspired younger cousins to embark on their journeys into higher education across diverse fields. Despite the limited time spent on campus due to the commitment to academic success, a standout favorite memory includes the festive celebration at a few extraordinary Halloween parties. These moments of lively celebration added a unique and fun touch to the broader narrative of hard work and dedication, making the achievement all the more memorable.

Learn More:  Alumni Information | Admissions | SUNY Old Westbury News