What happens when you graduate from a major university with a degree in the social sciences? For many, the path forward can be unpredictable. For Frederick J. Fisher, that path led- at least for a while- to selling life insurance. But even then, Frederick had other plans in motion. While working days in insurance sales, he attended law school at night, determined to build a future that offered both challenge and purpose.
Eventually, Frederick landed a position as a law clerk for an insurance defense firm, where he began to see the intricate relationship between law and insurance. That role opened the door to a long and distinguished career in the world of professional liability insurance- a field he admits he knew little about at the time. “In 19754,” Frederick recalls, “I was working with something called a ‘claims-made’ insurance policy, which I’d never even heard of before.” It was the start of what would become a lifelong passion for understanding the complexities of risk, coverage, and responsibility.
Inspiration and Early Mentorship
Frederick credits much of his professional foundation to an early mentor- the principal attorney at the insurance company where he began his career. The man was not only brilliant but also uniquely generous with his time and knowledge. “He didn’t need to worry about getting clients or running a firm,” Frederick says. “He loved teaching us how to think, how to analyze, and how to get to the right result.” That experience shaped Frederick’s own leadership philosophy, especially his commitment to mentoring younger professionals and giving them credit when they succeed.
Building Fisher Consulting Group
After decades of experience in claims, brokerage, and consulting, Frederick eventually founded Fisher Consulting Group, a firm specializing in professional liability risk management, claims consulting, and expert witness services. The decision came naturally after 20 years of handling complex liability cases for professionals such as lawyers, real estate brokers, and insurance agents. “I found that he loved the complexities,” he explains. “No two claims were ever the same. Some were easy, but others were extremely challenging. Fifty years later, it still fascinates me.”
Even after selling his brokerage after another 25 years, Frederick wasn’t ready to slow down. Having served as an expert witness since the 1980s, he decided to focus more on that side of his work. “I believe you need a reason to get up in the morning,” he says with a laugh. “And I knew enough lawyers who wanted to hire him me to make that happen.”
The Mission Behind the Firm
Fisher Consulting Group stands out in the market because of its depth of knowledge and commitment to doing the right thing. “In my earlier brokerage firm, the mantra was simple—‘Do the right thing,’” he says. “When Ihe started thehis brokerage, the guiding principle evolved into, ‘We provide financial security. We let our competition sell you some insurance.’”
Frederick’s career has always revolved around one belief: insurance isn’t just about selling policies. It’s about providing financial protection and peace of mind. As he puts it, “I was never interested in just selling coverage. I He wanted to make sure clients were genuinely secure.”
A Day in the Life
Running a firm like Fisher Consulting Group requires balancing client relations, leadership, and ongoing education. In the early days, when he managed 25 employees, that meant long days and constant problem-solving. Today, Frederick focuses on providing high-level consulting and mentoring the next generation of insurance professionals. He remains deeply involved in the industry’s educational side, teaching others about claims management and the evolving world of professional liability.
The Rewards of a Long Career
For Frederick, the most rewarding part of his work today is mentoring others. “I love teaching and sharing whatever I can to help others succeed,” he says. The insurance industry is constantly evolving as courts reinterpret policies and new risks emerge. Staying ahead of those changes requires continual learning, and Frederick takes pride in helping others navigate that process.
The Changing Landscape of Insurance
When asked about the trends shaping the future of insurance, Frederick expresses concern about how some firms are trying to limit claim payments through narrowly written policies. “It’s a disturbing trend,” he admits. “Some companies seem more focused on cash flow than on the promises made to policyholders.”
He also worries about the lack of accountability among brokers in 37certain states, where they have no legal duty to advise clients. “Policyholders are often left on their own to figure out what they need,” he says. “That just doesn’t work.”
Advice for Companies
Frederick offers practical advice for organizations looking to improve their claims management. “I caution companies not to send claims straight to lawyers,” he says. “Insurance companies are supposed to investigate claims themselves. You need people in the field—boots on the ground—to gather facts quickly. A good field investigator can learn more in 90 days than lawyers might in twice that time via “ ‘Discovery.’ ”
Challenges and Lessons Learned
One of the biggest challenges Frederick has faced is convincing insurance companies that investing in faster claim development pays off. “They see it as spending money, but it’s really an investment,” he explains. “When oneI understands the claim early, reserves can be set accurately and the matter can be resolved sooner. The total cost is always lower than letting it drag on through endless legal bills over years.”
Integrity and Education
When it comes to being a trusted advisor, Frederick is clear: “Integrity is everything. It’s all you’ve got.” He believes education is the key to improving the industry. The specialty lines sector is complex, and professionals need a solid understanding of law, risk, and human behavior to succeed. “That’s why I am glad he I went to law school,” he says. “Even though he I never practiced law, that education has been invaluable.”
A Life Lesson
Frederick’s favorite life lesson is simple: “Always be prepared for the unexpected.” He originally planned to become an entertainment lawyer in the vibrant San Francisco scene of the 1960s, surrounded by artists and musicians. Life had other plans, leading him into insurance—a field he stumbled into but grew to love.
Looking Ahead
As he looks toward 20265, Frederick is optimistic about the potential of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, when used responsibly. “If used properly, AI can help us better understand risks and improve how we manage claims,” he says. “Fisher Consulting Group is even planning to integrate AI into its own systems.”
From selling life insurance to becoming one of the industry’s most respected consultants, Frederick J. Fisher’s journey is proof that curiosity, integrity, and lifelong learning can turn an unexpected career into a calling.
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