Entrepreneurial Leadership at Alliant: A Conversation with Peter Carpenter
The insurance industry often conjures images of spreadsheets and policies, but for Peter Carpenter, COO of Alliant, it’s about something far deeper. At the heart of his leadership philosophy is a commitment to empowering people and creating meaningful impact.
Read time: 2 minutes
Entrepreneurial Leadership at Alliant:
A Conversation with Peter Carpenter
Entrepreneurial Leadership at Alliant: A Conversation with Peter Carpenter
The insurance industry often conjures images of spreadsheets and policies, but for Peter Carpenter, COO of Alliant, it’s about something far deeper. At the heart of his leadership philosophy is a commitment to empowering people and creating meaningful impact.
Read time: 2 minutes
Entrepreneurial Leadership at Alliant:
A Conversation with Peter Carpenter
Entrepreneurial Leadership at Alliant: A Conversation with Peter Carpenter
The insurance industry often conjures images of spreadsheets and policies, but for Peter Carpenter, COO of Alliant, it’s about something far deeper. At the heart of his leadership philosophy is a commitment to empowering people and creating meaningful impact.
Read time: 2 minutes
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o an outsider, working in the insurance industry might seem like a world of numbers and policies—a place where spreadsheets and solutions reign supreme. But for Peter Carpenter, COO of Alliant, the heart of the work lies elsewhere. “The thing that really brings meaning to it,” he says, “is contributing positively to people's lives. By focusing on that, you find a deeper purpose in what you’re doing day in and day out. It’s about trying to make someone else’s life better.”
This ethos of creating meaningful impact is woven into the DNA of Alliant’s entrepreneurial leadership culture. Leadership here isn’t about fancy titles or wielding authority. It’s about creating an environment where people feel empowered to do their best work. And if you’ve ever worked with Peter, you’ll know his philosophy is more than just words.
"Leadership isn't about being ‘the boss’ or sitting in an ivory tower. It's about empowering others,” he says.
For him, the real job of a leader is clearing obstacles out of the way so their team can excel. "Get rid of the red tape, insulate your team from unnecessary politics, and let people focus on what they’re great at. When you do that, not only does your team succeed, but so does the organization."
Investment in Others and Walking the Talk
Peter has an approachable demeanor, but his perspective on leadership is anything but casual. He believes deeply in the importance of investing in others. “People need to know—and believe—that you’re invested in their success,” he explains. “If they can’t feel that from you, they won’t buy into what you’re trying to do.”
This philosophy stems from his belief that leadership is not about ego or control. “The satisfaction should come from being part of someone else’s win,” he says. “It’s about seeing the excitement in others when they succeed.”
Peter doesn’t just talk about leadership; he lives it. He leads by example, making it clear that no one is above the collective mission.
“People evaluate you based on how you are,” he says. "I make it crystal clear that I’m not better than anyone else. We all have different roles to play, but everyone brings value to the equation.”
This shared sense of purpose fosters collaboration and trust, values that Peter believes are essential for any team to thrive. It’s this clarity and authenticity that fuels Alliant’s entrepreneurial spirit—a spirit that’s about more than innovation or risk-taking.
So how does Alliant maintain a workplace where people feel motivated and empowered?
Peter acknowledges the balance required between freedom and structure. “Entrepreneurialism is more of a spirit than a construct,” he explains. “But to truly thrive, we need the right balance. Some stressors can be relieved by adding structure—not rigid rules, but frameworks that help people focus on what really matters.” He pauses before adding, “What’s critical is ensuring that the people in leadership roles are true leaders. If they’re not, they shouldn’t be in those positions.”
Ultimately, entrepreneurial leadership at Alliant comes down to creating an environment where people can bring their best selves to work. It’s about innovation, collaboration, and finding purpose in the work we do. As Alliant continues to grow, this spirit of entrepreneurialism ensures that its people—and the clients we serve—are always at the center of our success.
CA License No. 0C36861
© {{CurrentYear}} Alliant Insurance Services, Inc.
CA License No. 0C36861
© {{CurrentYear}} Alliant Insurance Services, Inc.