Arch Cassidy is a sales representative for Axa Advisors, a financial services firm.
WHAT DOES THE COMPANY DO?
Founded in 1865 as Equitable Life, the company sells equitable products such as annuities, investment products and college plans.
HOW LONG WITH THE COMPANY?
After spending 30 years with the firm as an agency manager, Cassidy retired in 1991, only to return to the market. He started in 1953 in the sales department. “I didn’t know what I was going to do. I felt like I was too young to retire so I decided to try selling.” In addition to his dealings with Axa, Cassidy maintains the Cassidy Group, which he operates when he’s not selling Axa products.
CLIENT BASE
Although most of his customers fall in the white-collar, 45-years-old and up category, Cassidy is looking to add younger clients.
WHY PURSUE YOUNGER CUSTOMERS?
“People are getting married and having kids later and are in hock up to their ears.”
HOMETOWN
Bradenton, Fla.
EDUCATION
Business was Cassidy’s major at the University of Florida.
WHY GO INTO THIS FIELD?
“Good salesmen make good money. My dad was an agency manager here before but he never pushed me.”
WHAT’S REWARDING ABOUT YOUR WORK?
“I think you do good for people. It improves their financial position and gives them a track to run on.”
STAGE FRIGHT
Even after decades in the business, Cassidy is still apprehensive over closing a sale. “It’s challenging getting up in front of and talking to people.”
AFFILIATIONS
Cassidy serves on the board of St. Vincent’s Foundation, YMCA and Vision is Priceless. He is also a member of the Meninak Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and part of the Estate Planning Council. An avid sports fan, Cassidy is a Bull Gator (financial contributor) to the University of Florida.
CLAIM TO FAME
Part of the Million Dollar Roundtable, Cassidy sells over $1 million worth of products each year. He was also the No. 1 senior associate worldwide for Axa last year.
HOBBIES
Fishing, golfing and attending UF football games are his main distractions. When he’s lounging at home, Cassidy prefers to read a novel by John Grisham or tune in the television show “JAG.” His favorite movie is “Saving Private Ryan.” For dinner, it’s Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.
FAMILY
Cassidy and his wife Delores (“Lo”) have two daughters, Sterling and Beverley, and four grandchildren.
WHO DO YOU ADMIRE?
“Robert Shircliff. He’s older than I am and works his tail off for charity. He were on the campaign together at St. Vincent’s. He is the best chairman of the board I’ve ever seen and an all-around great guy.”
—by Monica Chamness