FORTY under 40: Tim Svoboda
Tim Svoboda, vice president, captive consultant, Conner Strong & Buckelew.
After graduating from the University of Kansas with a degree in finance, Tim Svoboda began his career at Lockton’s global headquarters in Kansas City, MO. Four years later, he jumped at the chance to transfer to Lockton’s NYC office, fulfilling a long-time goal of living in New York. Approximately a year after relocating, he was offered a position at Conner Strong and Buckelew, where he currently serves as vice president of captive and alternative risk consulting. In this role, he advises clients and prospects that are determined to find better alternatives to traditional insurance, exploring strategies such as single-parent captives, risk retention groups and many other unique alternative risk solutions. Additionally, he leads Conner Strong’s alternative risk practice group, focusing on developing internal expertise and strategic initiatives.
How did you first become involved in captive insurance?
I entered the insurance industry when I joined Lockton’s captive consulting team at the outset of my career. At the time, I knew little about insurance and even less about captives, but I was drawn to the financial, analytical and travel aspects of the role. Navigating an emerging sector within an unfamiliar industry was challenging, and I had to learn quickly to succeed, but the journey has been incredibly gratifying.
What are the greatest challenges of working in this industry, and what do you find most rewarding?
I’ve often heard captives referred to as the “wild west” of the insurance industry; one of the ways that manifests is the limited availability of structured development programmes. Few organisations offer a defined alternative risk educational path, making self-driven learning critical. I was fortunate to work alongside talented professionals from many different disciplines, including actuarial, commercial insurance, tax, accounting and captive consulting, and I did my best to internalise everything that I observed. I supplemented my education with professional designation programmes offered through the institutes, and, most recently, the Associate in Captive Insurance designation through ICCIE. It was daunting at the start, but the sense of accomplishment when it all clicked made the journey worthwhile. My greatest challenge and most rewarding experience are the same – navigating the unknown and emerging with deep expertise.
Would you recommend the captive insurance industry to young people as a future career path?
I do, emphatically and often. This field has opened many doors for me, provided extensive travel opportunities and continually challenges me to grow and adapt. Rapid industry growth coupled with a looming talent gap on the horizon means that opportunities are plentiful. My advice to newcomers: find a mentor, work hard, learn everything you can, and put yourself out there. I am incredibly grateful for those who took a chance on me and invested in my success.
This field has opened many doors for me, provided extensive travel opportunities and continually challenges me to grow and adapt
What developments do you see ahead for captives?
The two most significant developments facing the industry are the talent gap and rise of AI. While the full impact is not yet known, I am confidently optimistic that they will create more opportunities for professionals entering the field.
Do you think your long-term future remains in the captives market?
Absolutely. Captives and alternative risk are poised to grow in prevalence, and I am eager to be a part of that.
Click here to read Captive International’s third FORTY Under 40 2025 publication.
Did you get value from this story? Sign up to our free daily newsletters and get stories like this sent straight to your inbox.
