Nov. 30, 2021

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Mataya Naber, an employee benefits specialist and co-owner at Premier Benefit Advisors.

Name: Mataya Naber

Age: 27

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I went to the University of Arizona in Tucson for college and got a job in advertising when I graduated, but I always knew that I’d probably come back to Sioux Falls at some point. This is home, and I can’t imagine a better place to build a life for my husband and me. I also knew that at some point — probably because she called me every day asking — my mom would want me to join her business and learn about the world of employee benefits. 

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

So many things. I love the sense of community that Sioux Falls has, the growth that has taken place over the last 10 years, and overall, it’s where I want to raise my future kids. I also have a lot of wood left to chop in continuing to learn employee benefits and growing our agency, and I’m excited for it! 

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love working with people. Whether it’s an employer or one of their employees, meeting people from different walks of life is so much fun! I also really enjoy helping people understand what their benefits are. Before I got into this industry, I couldn’t have told you what insurance plan I had or how it worked, and I think a lot of people are in the same boat as I was. Helping people understand the confusing world of insurance is a part of my job that is very rewarding. 

How did you get connected to your industry?

Simply put, my mother. Growing up and watching her work, I told myself I would never work in insurance. Obviously, that idea didn’t pan out, but I’m so glad it didn’t. Getting to learn from and work with my mom is truly a blessing and the best decision I ever made. 

Describe Premier Benefit Advisors in three words. 

Benefits made easy.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

In my spare time, I teach hot yoga classes at Ignite Fitness Studio and coach volleyball for ClubCentral, and I love it!

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

I love supporting local organizations through sponsorships at events. It’s fun to support their causes while also getting to experience different and unique events!

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now? 

Honestly, it will never happen since it’s only in Tucson, but there is a fast-food chain called Eegee’s that I really miss. The best fries and buffalo ranch sauce I think I’ve ever had!

 Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I hope that our agency is continuing to grow and that we can continue helping employers find creative solutions for benefits that fit the business’ needs as well as the needs of their employees.