Agency Nation Meets: Emily McGinn

• January 1, 2026

Get to know the individuals that ignite the insurance industry as they answer our icebreaker questions. 

Emily McGinn is general manager of the MGA and wholesale business unit at Vertafore, overseeing product development, professional services and customer service. She is a seasoned business and technology leader and has driven growth and transformation across finance, operations and digital initiatives.

Previously, Emily held senior roles at Windstream, Lumen Technologies and Zayo Group, where she led large teams, improved efficiency and fostered innovation.

She holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Denver and a Bachelor of Arts from the College of the Holy Cross, and is an active mentor and speaker on advancing women in technology.

Thanks for joining us, Emily! What film will you probably keep watching over and over again?

“High Fidelity.” It reminds me of a special time and place in my life. I used to live in Chicago.

It’s a great book, too. What is your favorite book?

“Pride and Prejudice.”

And that’s a great movie! Where would you go during a zombie apocalypse?

Maybe out on a sailboat? Correct me if I’m wrong, but I’m pretty sure zombies can’t swim very well.

So far, the Agency Nation agrees. What is your dream vacation?

I would love to charter a sailboat and then travel around the Caribbean for a few months. Plus, no zombies!

A vacation with zombies would not be fun. What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Being late. I try so hard not to be late myself and can’t stand it when others are. Having three kids makes this a challenge, but I’m proud to say I’ve found some tricks that help us get out the door on time.

What do you do to unwind after a long day at work?

I like to watch “Below Deck” on Bravo. All seasons, all captains, all boats. While reality TV is usually pretty scripted, I like to think these guys are just trying to get a job done in a really exciting environment. Of course, the drama is a plus.

You must really love boats. Do you have a workout routine?

I love the Peloton ecosystem. Follow me at QueenofQuads! Unfortunately, I have to get my workout in at 4:30 a.m. before the kids wake up and work starts. I rotate daily between lifting, cycling and running.

Do you have any pets? If so, what are their names?

We have a little dachshund named Dottie Pepper. She’s just 6 months old and we are currently learning the joys of potty training.

What superpower do you wish you had?

I wish I could sleep anywhere, on demand, for a solid eight hours without waking up. What an amazing feat this would be!

What’s one productivity tool you couldn’t live without?

Google Calendar for my family. I don’t know how my parents coordinated without it!

What’s the best phrase or slang people use in your hometown or family?

“Bubbler.” I’m from Milwaukee, so if you know, you know. 😉

Hopefully we haven’t printed something rude there. Last of all, what is something you’re looking forward to?

I started with Vertafore in the fall of 2025 and am looking forward to attending my first Accelerate conference, April 13-16, 2026, in Las Vegas. This year’s focus is on how insurance professionals are turning artificial intelligence into action. The theme perfectly reflects the innovation shaping our industry.

We’ll see you there! Thanks, Emily! 

This is a monthly column for Independent Agent magazine and iamagazine.com. To be featured, email hello@agencynation.com.