It takes a special group of people to build a successful financial services firm. In our case, it meant hiring professionals who share our passion for wellness and a commitment to delivering an outstanding service experience to our clients. We’ve been fortunate to assemble a team that not only satisfies that criteria, but goes above and beyond each day, exceeding our expectations and helping us take Bridgewell’s growth to the next level.
In the latest installment of our Meet the Bridgewell Team blog series, we help you become better acquainted with a professional who has already helped propel our success: Group Service Coordinator Sharika Thalapally. Sharika joined the team in 2024 and has displayed constant initiative, a willingness to learn and to expand her responsibilities. Here, she delivers an overview of her professional expertise, the career experience that prepared her for a role at our firm and explains her passion for globetrotting.
Can you provide a few details about your professional background?
I have a Bachelors of Engineering degree in electronics and communications that I completed in India, with a post-graduate diploma in project management that I earned in Canada. I worked with a group health benefits solution provider for more than five years as a process coordinator and as a payment service officer for Service Canada for two years. Prior to that, I worked for a major national insurance company as a claim processor.
What brought you to Bridgewell?
I felt Bridgewell was a good match for me, and I brought a wealth of knowledge based on my prior group health experience. Bridgewell is a young company, and I thought I could bring shared values and experience to my role. I felt there was an opportunity for me and the company to grow together.
How do you support the Bridgewell team on a daily basis?
I’m a Group Service Coordinator responsible for handling amendments and carrier transfers, along with new business implementation for small groups. A great thing about Bridgewell is that although I was hired for these responsibilities, I showed interest in learning about Salesforce administration and was given the opportunity to take a Salesforce course. I now handle our back-end administration for that platform.
What do you think is unique about Bridgewell’s service offering and culture?
The company culture is definitely unique. People care about you and your interests, both as an individual and professionally. You don’t have to think twice about approaching the partners. They’re very friendly. They believe in positivity and don’t want any negativity in the workplace.
They check to see if we need any support and to help us grow on the professional front. At Bridgewell, we also believe in wellness, not only for clients, but also employees; our work-life balance is amazing.
What do you like to do away from the office?
I love to travel. Each year I try to visit new destinations with the same group of friends. Last year we visited the U.S., and this year we plan to go to Ireland. I also enjoy reading and spending time watching Netflix.
The Bridgewell team
For assistance with your wealth and financial planning, insurance or group benefits planning needs, contact a member of our team today.
