Hi, my name is Elizabeth Mertel.  I was born and raised in Southern CA and I am the oldest of three daughters.  Growing up I was a diligent student and an avid softball player.  I went on to continue my softball career at the collegiate level.  I attended California Lutheran University, where I completed my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing and Finance.  

I did not anticipate a career in insurance, however, upon meeting a few representatives from Crusader Insurance, my interest was piqued. The business seemed to encapsulate my love for analytical thinking, as well as my passion for building relationships.  During my time at Crusader Insurance and Amwins Brokerage, I learned the basics of underwriting and risk management.  I also had the chance to experience the industry through a carrier lens and wholesale lens.   

Three years into my career, I landed at Seneca, a Crum & Forster subsidiary, where I have spent the last 8 years developing as professional.  I joined Seneca with the objective of establishing a company presence in the state of CA.  Together, with my career long mentor Jim Pelletier, we built a retail-driven book of business from the ground up and eventually went on to manage the wholesale contracts as well.  Today, Seneca is a well-known company throughout the state of CA, and we are projected to reach $56M in GWP this year.  At the end of 2024 I was promoted to AVP – Profit Center Manager for the wholesale-driven business.  I now manage a team of eight employees, many of whom are young insurance professionals.  It has been an absolute pleasure to pay it forward and mentor them as they embark on their own career journeys.   

Aside from learning the business, I have learned a lot about myself over the course of the past 10 years.  During my personal time, I enjoy making jewelry as well as camping in my recreational vehicle.  I find that both are extremely therapeutic and help me balance my work and personal life.