Becky Hammond

Vice president - client service leader, employee benefits and shareholder, Holmes Murphy

Age: 36

Education: Bachelor of Science in business administration from Drake University 

Husband: Jordan Hammond 

Children: Graeme Hammond, Maeve Hammond

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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

In my role at Holmes Murphy, I have direct and indirect leadership oversight of a team of over 75 employees spanning across three states in addition to continuing to consult on a book of business. In addition to my formal role at Holmes Murphy, I am a shareholder and have also been awarded the Game Changer Award. 

I also serve as the chair of Holmes Murphy's first employee resource group, Women Optimizing Women (WOW), focused on supporting women personally, professionally and within the community. 

I serve on the Chrysalis Foundation board of directors and serve as the chair of the Chrysalis Impact committee. 

I was recognized and awarded the Women on the Rise award given by Paradigm for Parity, a national coalition dedicated to addressing the racial and gender gap in business leadership.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

My biggest passion is advocating for equality for women and girls. I believe that every person, regardless of gender, should have the same opportunities to succeed in society in whatever way they define success. I am driven to contribute to changing societal norms, improving access to educational and career opportunities and advocating for policies that promote gender equality.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

I define success as achieving personal fulfillment while positively affecting the lives of others. For me, success isn't just about achieving personal or professional goals; it's about growth, learning and making a difference.

Tell us about an issue you think more people should know about.

One issue I believe more people should be aware of is the affordability of day care. Many families struggle to find quality day care that is both accessible and affordable. The issue not only affects parents but also affects the broader economy, as it can prevent individuals, particularly women, from reentering the workforce or pursuing career advancement.

What's an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?

An experience that influenced how you saw the world comes from growing up in a family of entrepreneurs. My dad, in particular, had a huge impact on my mindset as he always told me, "If you want something bad enough, figure out a way to make it happen." Watching him build and navigate his own business taught me the power of determination, resourcefulness and resilience. It shaped how I approach my personal and professional life — creating solutions and not waiting for things to happen but rather making them happen.

What are your aspirations for the future?

My aspiration for the future is to inspire and empower others — personally as a mother, professionally as a leader and within the Greater Des Moines community as a donor, volunteer and advocate.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

One piece of advice I would give is to just say yes. Say yes to new opportunities, challenges and experiences that push you out of your comfort zone. It will help you build resilience, expand your network, and discover strengths and passions that you may not have known you had.

What's one regular habit that's made you successful?

One regular habit that's made me successful is waking up early. Starting my day early gives me a head start, allowing me to plan, focus and set the tone for a productive day. It's a simple habit that helps me stay organized, energized and motivated throughout the day.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

The affordability of day care while also addressing the low wages earned by day care teachers and employees. The cost of day care continues to adversely affect the local workforce, specifically women.

What's one fun fact about you?

I read 41 books in 2024!

Hobbies:

Reading; outdoor walks; visiting new parks with my kids.

What is one word that best describes you?

Tenacious.

What’s one food (meal, snack, dessert, whatever!) you think people must try in the Des Moines area?

Louie's Wine Dive squeaky cheese.

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

My kids and I love to visit Willow Springs Park in West Des Moines — a hidden gem!