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INTERVIEW of WISTA USA. Before that, she served as President of NY/

NJ Chapter of WISTA for ? ve years. Her service to the or- ganization that gives women a place to network, a source for mentors, advice, and a voice in the maritime industry, spans many years. Given her early roots, it isn’t hard to see why. “WISTA inspires me because I believe in the core value it represents: anyone, notwithstanding of his or her gender, race, age or national origin can accomplish success. WISTA mem- bers actively help each other to achieve this success and I am fortunate to be part of this wonderful initiative.”

As much as she gives to the organization, the bene? ts al- ways come back. According to Farrar, WISTA is also the only organization with members from different layers from the in- dustry – shipowners, surveyors, suppliers, lawyers, etc. – from all over the world, presenting unsurpassable networking op-

I am fortunate to come from a portunities. Never one lose a chance to take in all that others around her are willing to share – growing up, in school and family of exceptional individuals in business – the real value of WISTA is also not lost on her. “WISTA is a place where I have found numerous friends and and especially exceptional women. have met incredibly impressive individuals: our President Al-

My grandmother was a lawyer and exandra Anagnostis and our board and leadership team and so many others.” also spoke several languages. My mother is a doctor and has a PhD

On the Job

Unlike her previous work as a practicing attorney, Farrar in immunology. Growing up, I was says that work at the Club is equally stimulating, but requires completely different set of skills, especially in terms of claims immensely in? uenced by them as handling, and the variety of issues presented on a daily ba- they instilled a drive for excellence sis. Beyond this, she adds, the ability to multitask and take good informed decisions quickly is a key to success; man- in everything I do.

agement of the claim and cost evaluation are important, as is understanding of the issues at hand. She adds, “At the Club, my international background ? ts the international nature of our trade: our members operate globally and we often handle claims around the world: knowledge of different legal systems and language skills is instrumental in providing excellent ser- vice of our members.”

Recently appointed as the club’s Business Development Di- rector of North America, Farrar now balances these responsi- bilities with her traditional roles. “I am very excited about this new role and I am appreciative for this opportunity. Together and warmth.” Later, and at Hill, Betts & Nash LLP, Gregory with our underwriting department, we need to maintain and

O’Neill, the ? rm’s managing partner and accomplished mari- further develop business opportunities in North America and time trial lawyer, took a personal interest in her career. Bori- the Americas in general. Business development and claims ana adds, “He taught me a tremendous amount about the prac- handling go well together and I enjoy doing both,” explains tice of law and life in general.” Farrar, adding quickly, “Excellent claims service is the best

As a Board Member of the NY/NJ Chapter of Women Inter- marketing tool.” national Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA), Farrar But, insists Farrar, prevention is the best way to prevent assumes a shared responsibility for all aspects of operation those claims from happening in the ? rst place. And because 18 Maritime Professional 2Q 2016| |

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