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Luis Martinez, a Venezuelan American born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, works with business owners and senior leaders to protect what matters most through strategic risk management. Martinez designs customized Property & Casualty insurance and surety programs for Lockton clients in industries such as construction, real estate, and private equity across the US and Latin America. Blending entrepreneurial drive with deep collaboration, he helps organizations view risk not just as a safeguard but also as a tool for growth and efficiency.
What is your greatest career accomplishment to date?
One of my proudest accomplishments was making the decision to bet on myself—and seeing that risk turn into something deeply rewarding. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial drive, but early in my career, I knew I needed to build a strong foundation first. I started in accounting, then moved into investment banking, where I worked on M&A deals across a variety of industries. It was a fast-paced, high-performing environment that gave me incredible insight into how successful businesses operate and what effective leadership really looks like.
Even though I was doing well, I hit a point where I realized I didn’t just want a seat at the table—I wanted ownership. Walking away from investment banking was one of the toughest and most uncertain decisions I’ve ever made. On paper, it didn’t make much sense to my peers. But for me, it felt like the first step toward something more aligned with who I am and what I value.
That leap ultimately led me to Lockton. What attracted me was the entrepreneurial model—here, I have equity in what I build and the freedom to grow something of my own, all while helping clients navigate complex risks and unlock new opportunities.
Landing a full-time Producer Partner role at Lockton, and building a growing book of business, has been the most fulfilling accomplishment of my career so far. It’s where my passion for entrepreneurship, strategic thinking, and relationship-building all come together—and I haven’t looked back since.
What is your greatest personal accomplishment to date?
Earning a full scholarship to Rockhurst University and competing as a Division II lacrosse player is my proudest personal accomplishment. It was a moment that not only represented years of my own hard work, but the sacrifices my parents made to give me every possible opportunity to succeed. I still get emotional thinking about the day I told them I earned that scholarship.
As a first-generation American and the son of a Venezuelan immigrant, I grew up with a deep appreciation for what it means to work hard and not take opportunities for granted. Playing college athletics taught me how to push through adversity, stay disciplined under pressure, and lead with resilience. Those lessons continue to shape my professional life.
I have to smile as I say this, and I’m sure many first-gen kids will agree, our parents do not mess around when it comes to education. That scholarship meant everything, and I’m proud of what it stood for.
What do you do today to impact your community?
I serve on the Board of Trustees for both Rockhurst University and Guadalupe Centers in Kansas City, and am also an active member and sponsor of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City.
Community and education have had a huge impact on my life, and I intentionally align myself with organizations that reflect those values. Early in my career, I leaned heavily on mentorship— often asking questions and seeking guidance. These groups allow me to pay that forward by helping create access, representation, and support for the next generation of leaders. It’s something I’m passionate about, and it keeps me focused on what really matters.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself evolving from an up-and-comer in the insurance industry to a recognized thought leader. I’m passionate about continuing to grow professionally while giving back—especially through mentorship. I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors who’ve made a lasting impact on my career, and I look forward to paying it forward by supporting the next generation of industry leaders.
What is the biggest issue that you want to help solve, and why?
Immigration reform is an issue that’s deeply personal to me. My wife and I are currently navigating a pending immigration case, and spending time apart during this process has been challenging. It’s opened my eyes to inefficiencies and the emotional toll so many families struggle through—often in silence.
This isn’t about politics for me; it’s about people. Immigration, when done right, is a catalyst for growth and innovation in this country. Yet too often, the conversation is reduced to soundbites that ignore the real issue: the process itself.
Even as a US citizen, I’ve spent more than eighteen months waiting on a single form from USCIS. When I share that with friends or colleagues, the response is always the same: “But you’re a citizen.” That disbelief is why I try to tell our story as openly and honestly as possible. Every delayed case isn’t just a file—it represents relationships, milestones, holidays, and entire chapters of life—all placed on hold.
I’m not a politician, but I can be an advocate—by helping others understand what’s really happening, by sharing our experience, and by pushing for a system that reflects fairness and humanity.
As the son of a Venezuelan immigrant who was proud to become a US citizen, I feel like I’m living proof of the American Dream and that’s what drives me to push for change.
What is a moment when you realized the impact of your work?
I’m fortunate to work in an industry where I’m often one of the first calls my clients make when the unimaginable happens. Whether it’s a workplace injury, a cyber breach, or a building damaged by a natural disaster, I don’t just sell insurance—I help protect what matters most to my clients: their people, their assets, and the businesses they’ve worked hard to build. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that during their toughest moments, they trust me to help guide them through it.
What advice would 10-year-old you be shocked to hear you followed?
Ten-year-old me would be shocked to hear I left a stable job in investment banking—the one with the nice suits and fancy title—to sell insurance. Back then, “insurance” sounded like something adults talked about at boring dinner parties. But what would really blow his mind is that I love it.
He’d be even more surprised that I now coach lacrosse, the sport that once felt bigger than life, and that I find joy not just in winning games, but in mentoring young players—the same way mentors helped shape my journey. I think that kid would be proud to know we’re still chasing big goals … just with a different kind of playbook.
What’s a cultural tradition that always brings you joy?
One cultural tradition that brings me joy is our weekend family gatherings—they feel like a holiday celebration every time. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a space where multiple generations come together, share stories, laugh, and support one another. That sense of closeness and community has shaped who I am, and I look forward to creating that same environment for my future family and continuing the tradition for generations to come.
What song do you listen to that motivates you?
“Going the Distance” (Rocky) by Bill Conti.
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Connect with Luis Martinez on LinkedIn.
