In this spotlight, we sat down with Mark Vujevich, a dedicated financial professional and firm leader with over 21 years of experience. Mark's journey in financial services has been defined by his passion for helping others succeed, his commitment to integrity and his dedication to building a strong, supportive team. Here’s a deeper look at Mark's career and leadership style.

How long have you been in financial services, and what led you to join the industry?
I’ve been in financial services for 21 years. My path into the industry wasn’t direct—after graduating college with a degree in economics, I actually worked in the restaurant business. A mutual friend of the family, who happened to be a Penn Mutual “Hall of Famer,” suggested I check out the financial services field. I met Charlie Parks, the managing partner at the time, and decided to join. It was a great decision, and I’ve been with Penn Mutual ever since.

You’ve held several roles throughout your career. Can you tell us about your journey?
I started as a financial professional and still hold that title. Over the years, I’ve moved into management roles, including serving as a compliance sales manager. Now, I’m the firm managing director, leading a team of around 24 financial professionals. But no matter the role, I’ve always maintained my work as a financial professional, which has helped me understand the challenges my team faces and how best to support them.

What sets your firm apart from others in the industry?
The culture here is what truly makes us stand out. We have a strong sense of integrity and a personality that’s centered on both hard work and having fun. People here get along well and the office has a family-like atmosphere. It's not unusual for financial professionals to become friends and even attend each other’s weddings. If you make it here, you stay. It's a supportive, engaging environment.

How do you support the financial professionals in your firm?
I see myself as a concierge for my team. Whatever they need, I’m there to help—whether it’s making calls on their behalf, offering guidance, or solving problems. I’ve been in their shoes, so I understand the challenges they face. My day often includes a number of phone calls from financial professionals who need assistance, and I’m always available to offer solutions.

What advice would you give someone considering joining your firm?
Look at the culture and the management. It’s important to find a place where you feel supported, where there’s integrity and where people are genuinely invested in each other’s success. The atmosphere here is one of camaraderie, and we truly care about each other. That’s a big reason why people stay.

Can you share a success story where you helped a financial professional grow their business?
One story that stands out is when a financial professional came to us from Northwestern Mutual about five years ago. With the help of our practice development team, including Jen Viscosi, we helped him grow his business sevenfold. Through coaching and implementing effective systems, we transformed his practice. That’s the kind of support we offer to help our team reach new heights.

How do you support financial professionals when they encounter obstacles?
I have an open-door policy, and my phone is always on. If someone calls me after hours, I’m ready to help. Whether it’s a small problem or a larger challenge, my role is to be there for them and find solutions. My leadership style is very much that of a “player’s coach.” I roll up my sleeves and work with my team to overcome any obstacles they face, from underwriting issues to bigger business challenges.

What qualities do you look for in a potential recruit?
I look for individuals who have a balanced approach to financial planning—those who believe in both wealth management and protecting that wealth. It’s important to have a holistic approach and that’s the kind of mindset I look for in recruits.

How does your firm stay competitive with technology and creativity?
We focus on supporting our financial professionals by supporting the tools they need. Whether they use Leap, Circle of Wealth, or eMoney, we provide comprehensive support for the systems that help them grow their practice.

What has been your biggest success in your career so far?
One of my proudest moments was when a financial professional left Guardian after 13 years because he couldn’t bring his son into the business there. He came to us, and both he and his son are now thriving here. Seeing them succeed has been a real success story for me.

Can you share a story of how financial products have made a difference for clients?
On a weekly basis, I see the impact of financial products on my clients. For instance, when a client passes away and their family receives a death benefit, it’s life-changing for them. I also work with clients who, through effective wealth management, can retire earlier than they anticipated. These are the kinds of success stories that remind me why I do this work.

Do you have a quote or saying that you live by?
“Promises made, promises kept.” I’ve lived by this mantra for 21 years, whether it’s with clients or financial professionals. It’s about building trust and following through on commitments.

What advice would you give to financial professionals thinking about changing firms?
I’d advise them to look closely at the firm’s leadership and culture. Ask the people already working there what they like about the firm. It’s important to make sure the culture aligns with your values and goals.

What do you do for fun in your free time?
I’m all about family. I have a big, close-knit family, and we all live within a five-minute walk of each other. We spend a lot of time together, golfing, and enjoying each other’s company. I believe that the strong bond I share with my family is reflected in the way I lead my firm. This is my second family, and we have fun while working hard together.

Mark Vujevich’s leadership and commitment to supporting his team have helped create a thriving firm culture where financial professionals can grow, succeed and build lasting relationships.

Want to learn more? Connect with Mark on LinkedIn.

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