Sioux Falls native enjoys ‘delivering value to companies that aren’t yet clients’

Sept. 10, 2019

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Cody Huisken, a business development specialist with Marsh & McLennan Agency.

Name: Cody Huisken

Age: 27

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I was born and raised here. I spent my summers in the Pacific Northwest growing up but realized that there’s no place like home.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

I really thought about leaving for the coasts to attend college but was surprised to find myself fall in love with USF. Through various work experiences right here in town, I could see a city whose work culture was not only prominent but future-oriented and accepting of next-generation leadership. Beyond that, the school systems and entertainment options are great for families. Whether it’s date night at Crawfords and a Broadway show downtown or a picnic at Sertoma followed by a Butterfly House visit with the kids, it’s never too hard to find clean, quality entertainment. We also love the new Levitt space!

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I enjoy delivering value to companies that aren’t yet clients. We host a lot of educational workshops and partner with OSHA on many trainings. Making area companies aware of these free events and showcasing our expertise in the industry fuels me.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I find joy in helping others succeed and connecting people. Prior to joining MMA, I had experience in the nonprofit sector and in recruiting. These experiences taught me how to connect people and deliver value. My best friend works for MMA. Back in elementary school, he and I were on the same baseball team sponsored by Howalt+McDowell Insurance. Little did I know that nearly 20 years later, we would be back playing on that same team again!

Describe Marsh & McLennan Agency in three words.

Continuously exceeding expectations.

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

Through connecting people. A few months ago, a complete stranger from Sioux Falls sent me a message on LinkedIn and wanted to meet. We grabbed coffee, and he was looking to donate his time to nonprofits that aligned with his vision. That coffee led to introductions to various local organizations such as Collision, the Ministry Center and Kingdom Capital. Now, he’s cut back on his working hours and spends a good portion each week serving in the community.

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

It’s hard to say. A decade ago, I would have said Costco without any hesitation. Now? IDK. Jersey Mike’s is coming, so that’s sweet. I’ve never been to Trader Joe’s or Chick-fil-A, but I’d certainly give them a try were they to come to town.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Right here. MMA is my home. I hope to be doing the same thing only more efficiently and on a wider scale — connecting people and delivering value. In five years, if those outcomes can be multiplied by leading and training a team to work alongside me, that would be the dream.

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Sioux Falls native enjoys ‘delivering value to companies that aren’t yet clients’

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Cody Huisken, a business development specialist with Marsh & McLennan Agency.

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