Lisa Hawks, Executive Vice President, Marketing & Communications, Nexben
As Head of Marketing and Communications at Nexben, an emerging growth company transforming how employers offer benefits, I’m passionate about helping organizations bring more control, flexibility, and choice to their health benefit strategies through ICHRAs and defined contribution health plans.
At Nexben, we partner with brokers, enterprise partners, and carriers to deliver cost-controlled, customizable solutions that power up employers to better serve their teams—while giving employees the freedom to choose the benefits that best fit their needs.
It’s incredibly cool to see employers offering health benefits for the first time, and to hear from grateful employees who can finally select what truly works for their families. That’s the impact that drives our work every day.
Why did you join the TRUST?
I joined The TRUST in 2023 after hearing so many colleagues rave about the incredible people and the wealth of opportunities to learn, connect and give back. It has more than exceeded my expectations. Being part of a network of ambitious, inspiring women who are driving meaningful change in health care is both energizing and rewarding. It’s fun to realize we are shaping a future where health care is better, fairer and simpler to navigate.
What has been your favorite part of being a member of the TRUST?
I enjoy connecting with so many women in different ways—whether it’s attending a webinar or event, answering a call for guidance or feedback, or recommending a trusted partner. No matter the setting, there’s a genuine spirit of helping that defines this community.
I love the positive energy and the “can-do” approach of lifting others up, supporting one another through transitions and challenges, and celebrating the milestones and achievements along the way. I’m also grateful for the constant opportunities to learn. Staying informed about emerging trends, getting an early view of what’s ahead, and applying new insights and tools all help me grow as a leader and contribute more effectively.
How do you approach mentoring others?
I grew up playing sports, so my mentoring style is part coach, part cheer crew. I like to understand what motivates and inspires women, and how I can share experiences, encouragement and sometimes a dose of honest feedback to help them grow. I realize I don’t have all the answers, and am willing to walk alongside them to find their own.
I’ve been blessed with incredible mentors throughout my career, and I feel privileged to give back. I’ve made plenty of great moves—and a few that belong in the “learning opportunities” column. So, if I can help others avoid some of those detours, I’m happy to share.
Above all, I believe in encouragement. Most of us spend a lot of time analyzing a situation, mapping out every possible scenario, and occasionally getting stuck in overthinking mode. Sometimes we just need a nudge to act. One of my favorite mentors says, “Perfection doesn’t earn outcomes. Is it 80% there? Then go!” I’ve adopted that mindset. It’s amazing how often progress beats perfection.
What is something not many people know about you?
Something people are often surprised to learn about me is that I’m adopted—and proud of it. Growing up, that wasn’t very common in my circles, but my parents were absolute rockstars. They brought me home at three weeks old and created a home filled with love, openness, support and curiosity. Adoption even became my go-to topic for school reports and presentations. My mom was such a hit as a guest speaker that I probably owed her a few coffee gift cards!
On a more personal note, being adopted also shaped how I think about my health. There are plenty of unknowns when it comes to family medical history, but it motivated me to ask questions. And I stay proactive by keeping up with screenings, listening to my body and focusing on what I can control. It’s been both a unique life story and a lifelong reminder of the value of awareness, gratitude and good humor.
Words of wisdom to live by?
My regular go-to words come straight from classic ad campaigns: Nike’s “Just Do It” and Morgan Stanley’s “You Are the CEO of Your Own Life.”
Some mornings, “Just Do It” is more of an out-loud pep talk, usually around 5 a.m. when my rowing machine calls my name. But those words remind me that action matters more than perfection. And “You Are the CEO of Your Own Life” is the perfect reminder that we hold the power. We’re smart, capable women who often know exactly what needs to be done, but occasionally run short on the confidence to take the leap, make the move or (heaven forbid) ask for help. Both phrases keep me grounded in the idea that confidence is a choice, and momentum starts with me.