Kelly Linkous Cole serves as an account executive for Imec, a century-old company specializing in multimedia brand communications. She has demonstrated exceptional resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to professional growth throughout her career. Her ability to pivot from homemaking to building a thriving career in the insurance industry at the age of 39 stands as a testament to her determination and drive. Imec, a family-owned business, benefits from Ms. Cole’s expertise in client relations and her financial acumen, which she honed during her tenure as financial controller. In her current role, she leverages her understanding of business operations and financial planning to expand the company’s presence and boost its sales and workforce.
Building on her academic foundation, Ms. Cole completed coursework in english literature (British and Commonwealth) at the University of Nebraska Omaha. Her education instilled a lifelong passion for learning, which she has carried into her professional life. Additionally, she holds a property and casualty license and is a certified insurance counselor, demonstrating her dedication to mastering her field’s technical and regulatory aspects. These credentials and her practical experience have allowed her to make significant contributions across multiple industries.
Ms. Cole’s professional journey began in commercial insurance, a field she entered with the encouragement of her aunt after her divorce. Starting as a customer service representative at Beecher Carlson, she quickly proved her capability. She earned promotions to account manager roles at Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance and later at USI Insurance Services. Her tenure at USI marked a turning point, as she managed complex accounts and delivered tailored solutions for large risk management clients and middle-market companies. Her ability to navigate intricate client needs and build long-term relationships set her apart as a standout professional. Ms. Cole’s career continued gaining momentum when she joined Lockton Companies as a senior account manager, where she further refined her risk assessment and program management skills. Briefly serving as an account manager at McGriff Insurance Services, Ms. Cole expanded her expertise before transitioning into a financial controller role at Imec. This move allowed her to diversify her skill set and contribute to the company’s operational success by overseeing financial planning, cost management, and strategic initiatives.
Significant achievements marked Ms. Cole’s tenure as financial controller at Imec. She navigated the challenges of managing payroll, monitoring cash flow, and interpreting profit and loss statements, particularly during the pandemic. Her ability to adapt to these responsibilities ensured the company’s financial stability and deepened her understanding of business operations. This experience prepared her for her current role as an account executive, where she is applying her people skills and sales acumen to drive the company’s growth.
Ms. Cole’s most significant professional achievement lies in her ability to rise from an entry-level position tracking insurance certificates to earning a six-figure salary within a decade. This progression underscores her determination to succeed despite starting her corporate journey later in life. Her story inspires, illustrating that hard work and perseverance can lead to remarkable accomplishments, no matter the circumstances. Her motivation stems from a deep love for her family and a desire to set an example for her daughters, who are accomplished professionals. Supported by her parents throughout her journey, Ms. Cole remains committed to lifelong learning and self-reliance. Her ability to balance a demanding career with her personal life reflects her strength and dedication to achieving excellence in all aspects of her life.
Looking to the future, Ms. Cole aims to expand Imec’s client base and enhance its workforce. She is dedicated to raising awareness of the company’s services nationwide, contributing to its continued success. Her ability to adapt, thrive, and lead in any environment positions her as a key figure in Imec’s growth and an enduring example of resilience and professional excellence.