A legacy of Leadership: 24 years in Title Insurance
In this edition of our Women of Title series, we are thrilled to introduce Amanda Brumbelow, Vice President of Operations and Partner at Allegiance Title Company of Arkansas, Inc. With 24 years of experience in the title insurance industry, Amanda’s journey is one of perseverance, leadership, and continuous growth.
From Babysitting to Title Insurance
Amanda’s path to the title industry began in an unexpected way—through babysitting. At just 13, Amanda began babysitting for local families. By the time she was 19, one of the families she worked for suggested she join their title company. Amanda, then a freshman in college with dreams of becoming an elementary school teacher, had never even heard of title insurance. But that suggestion was the spark that launched her into a career she hadn’t anticipated.
With the encouragement of Vicki Bronson at Bronson Abstract, Amanda entered the world of title insurance, starting as an entry-level escrow support. Within just six months, she was promoted to Escrow Officer at the age of 20. Though young, Amanda quickly learned the ropes of title insurance, closings, and what it meant to be a professional in a competitive field. That early leap into responsibility set the tone for the rest of her career.
Influential Women and Professional Growth
Throughout her career, Amanda has drawn inspiration from several influential women. Vicki Bronson, a polished professional, left a lasting impression, not just for her work in title insurance but for balancing her legal studies at the University of Arkansas while raising her two daughters. Amanda also credits Jacque Carruth and Donna Stewart for teaching her the intricacies of the title business and showing her that dedication and hard work can pave the way to success. "I think each one of these ladies showed me that with hard work and dedication, I can forge my own path," Amanda reflects.
Overcoming Challenges and Standing Firm
As a woman in an industry where the leadership is often dominated by men, Amanda has faced her share of challenges. She recalls moments early in her career that were both uncomfortable and eye-opening, particularly before the #MeToo movement. In 1995, at the age of 20, a REALTOR® customer asked her and a coworker to sit on his lap. Amanda refused, setting a boundary and standing firm in her professionalism. This was just one of many instances where Amanda had to navigate unsolicited attention and inappropriate advances.
Over the years, Amanda has learned to stay true to her values, relying on the support of her husband, Keith Brumbelow, to navigate these difficult situations. Today, she continues to stand up for professionalism and mutual respect in the workplace, setting an example for her daughters and others entering the industry.
Advice for Young Women in Title Insurance
For younger women starting in the title insurance industry, Amanda has some sage advice: define your core values and purpose early on. While it took Amanda until her forties to clearly define her values, doing so gave her clarity and direction. “Commitment, Courage, and Care” are her guiding principles—values that she feels resonate deeply and serve as her compass.
Amanda also emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, a growth mindset, and leading without a title. "Leaders become leaders because of their behaviors and ability to positively influence others," she says. For Amanda, true leadership is not about rank or title; it’s about empowering those around you.
Building Confidence and Staying Motivated
Like many professionals, Amanda has battled self-doubt throughout her career. However, understanding her personal values and managing her emotional responses to stressful situations has helped her regain confidence. By staying true to her guiding principles, she’s managed to continue pushing forward, growing both personally and professionally.
One of the books that has significantly impacted Amanda’s career is “How Women Rise” by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith. This book helped her identify habits that were holding her back and gave her tools to break through those barriers.
Handling Workplace Aggression
Amanda acknowledges that, sometimes, women can be their own biggest aggressors in the workplace. Rather than fostering competition, Amanda advocates for collaboration and growth. "True success comes from empowering those around you," she says, a philosophy that drives the culture at Allegiance Title.
Instead of tearing others down, Amanda believes in measuring success by one’s personal growth. It’s an approach that encourages camaraderie and respect, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
The Importance of High-Character Leadership
Amanda strongly believes the title industry needs more high-character leadership. At Allegiance Title, she fosters a collaborative, supportive environment where everyone works together, without ego. “We hire rock stars without rock star egos,” Amanda says. By nurturing a positive workplace culture, Amanda ensures that everyone at Allegiance Title feels valued and supported.
Life Outside of Work
Outside of the office, Amanda enjoys spending time outdoors—something that may come as a surprise to those who knew her as a child. Her husband’s love of nature has rubbed off
on her, and now the couple enjoys camping, boating, fishing, and hiking together. These moments in nature give Amanda the time she needs to reflect and recharge.
Amanda’s Legacy
When asked about her legacy, Amanda hopes to be remembered for the leaders she has influenced and empowered. She’s proud of the leaders her daughters are becoming —strong, capable, and compassionate women. Amanda’s greatest achievement will be the growth and success of those she has supported and mentored throughout her career.
Her personal mission is clear: "Learn today to improve tomorrow." Amanda embodies this philosophy both in and out of the office, continually striving to better herself and those around her.
Final Thoughts
In closing, Amanda encourages all women in the title industry to stay true to themselves, support one another, and never stop growing. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership, and the importance of staying grounded in one’s core values.
Thank you, Amanda, for your incredible insights and for being a true inspiration in the world of title insurance!
*Connect with Amanda here: abrumbelow@alltitle.com I LinkedIn I Instagram I Facebook
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