Scott Blake, MBA, knows the value of political advocacy. After a career in the political sphere, he now works to protect the interests of Main Street Americans as well as insurance and financial professionals.

From Politics to Financial Services

Blake transitioned from politics to financial services at the suggestion of his own financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual. Now, he's also a financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual. Working primarily with upwardly mobile millennials, Blake says he likes helping driven, motivated people achieve their dreams and goals. He talks about one such instance when he helped a millennial client buy their first home. “It's about serving your client. I get to wish for the best for them and help them achieve their dreams.” That's his favorite part of being a financial advisor—he gets to be everyone’s cheerleader.

Loyalty, honesty, and trustworthiness are important traits for any advisor, Blake says. “It’s important to build trust because you’re dealing with the most important topics they’ll ever encounter.”

The Value of NAIFA Membership

Blake has been on the board of NAIFA-Columbus since 2020 and currently serves as its President-Elect and VP of Advocacy. Being an active member of NAIFA is essential, he says, because NAIFA lets him have a finger on the pulse of the legislative environment surrounding the insurance and financial services industry at the local, state, and federal levels. "Our clients read the news. They understand what's happening in the world,” he begins. “Through NAIFA and the advocacy that we do, we're able to help them digest some of that to understand how the headlines affect what's going on in their day-to-day life and financial plan.”

Most importantly, Blake says that being an active NAIFA member helps industry professionals stay relevant with their clients. “It's a really tough ask to look your client in the eye and say, 'I know what's going to happen with social security, your IRA, or the capital gains tax rate’ if you're not involved with NAIFA or not politically active.”

Recruiting the Next Generation

Blake is passionate about recruiting more young professionals into the industry. "Our industry is at a flux point,” he says. “A lot of the influential advisors in our industry are approaching their own retirement; it's up to advisors who are in their 20s and 30s to get involved.”

Outside of the Office

When he’s not working, Blake spends most of his time with his wife and his two children, aged 4 years and 10 months. He also enjoys staying active, traveling, and trying new restaurants. 

Blake volunteers with the Association of Ohio Commodores as well as the International Visitors Council (IVC) in Columbus, OH. The Association of Ohio Commodores promotes economic development in Ohio. IVC hosts delegations of visitors from overseas to shadow the Ohio state legislature, allowing them the opportunity to learn about the American government and culture.

Thank you, Scott, for your service to our industry and association. We’re #NAIFAproud to call you one of our own.