Beth Harbeck shares how falling into an entry-level role led to a national leadership position, reflects on the evolution of women in surety, and underscores why mentorship, relationships and continuous learning remain the foundation of long-term success in a people-first industry.
In this blog, Beth Harbeck reflects on her 25-year career in surety, from falling into an entry-level role in the industry without knowing what a bond was to leading a national team as vice president of commercial surety at Old Republic Surety. What began as curiosity quickly became a lifelong career built on constant learning, relationship-building and the realization that no two days in surety are ever the same. Along the way, she developed a leadership style rooted in empathy, trust and ensuring every voice is heard.
Beth also shares how dramatically the role of women in surety has evolved over her career. Early on, women were largely in support roles and being the only woman in the room was common. Today, more women are entering underwriting, earning professional designations like the Associate in Fidelity and Surety Bonding (AFSB) certification earlier in their careers, and stepping confidently into leadership positions.
Encouraged by these changes, Beth emphasizes how essential it is to attract talented professionals who are adaptable, relationship-focused and eager to learn. Throughout market cycles, competitive shifts and the growing influence of technology, surety remains a people-first industry, and relationships will always be at the core of success.
The importance of relationships in the industry goes beyond attracting talent, however. Mentorship plays a central role in Beth’s journey, and she now dedicates herself to guiding others the way she was mentored during her career. She encourages professionals at every stage to seek mentors both inside and outside their organizations and to engage with industry groups and councils to build community and confidence.
Success in surety comes from dedication, continuous learning and a commitment to people. Beth’s advice: Take risks, embrace opportunities that stretch you, and don’t let a lack of formal credentials hold you back. Looking ahead, she hopes more young professionals will choose surety intentionally, recognizing the industry’s depth of opportunity and its welcoming space for diverse paths to leadership.
Read more about Beth in NASBP’s Surety Bond Quarterly blog post.
