Birmingham Welcomes Growth from New York Life
Birmingham, AL – New York Life has been making significant strides in the Magic City, with local managing partner Stacey Graham at the forefront of the initiative. Over the past four years, Graham has led efforts to expand the company’s footprint in Birmingham and throughout Central Alabama, adding dozens of new employees while pledging to continue this growth in the coming years.
A Growing Workforce
When Graham first arrived in Birmingham, he began with a team of approximately 35 employees. Today, that number is expected to reach 60 by the end of the year. This growth signifies not only the company’s commitment to the local economy but also its focus on long-term employee retention. “With New York Life, when we bring folks in, our objective is to keep them at New York Life,” Graham stated. “We do everything that we can to nurture them and support their careers at our company.”
Future Hiring Plans
Looking ahead, New York Life plans to add around 30 new employees in 2024 across the Central Alabama region, which includes Birmingham and Montgomery. Forecasts for 2025 indicate another potential increase of between 30 to 45 employees. This ambitious hiring strategy aligns with Graham’s philosophy of investing in people as a core part of the company’s overarching process.
Why New York Life?
Graham’s journey to New York Life wasn’t straightforward. Before moving to Birmingham, he worked in consumer banking and faced the challenge of constant travel between Fort Lauderdale and Philadelphia. After some reflection and encouragement from his wife, he sought a position that would allow him to stay local. “The value proposition of the company and the mutuality of the company fit the blueprints of what I wanted to accomplish,” he explained.
Community Engagement
New York Life has not only focused on internal growth but has also made a mark in the community. The company was a proud sponsor of the recent MLB event at Rickwood Field, celebrating the history of Negro League baseball. This event, which attracted national attention, showcased Birmingham’s rich cultural heritage and provided a platform for local engagement.
A Bit About Stacey Graham
Stacey Graham’s background adds an interesting layer to his role at New York Life. He is a veteran of the Navy and holds a degree from the University of Miami. An interesting fact that many may not know about him is that he crossed the equator on a naval vessel, participating in a unique military ceremony known as the shell-back initiation. While he did not participate in the initiation himself, he recalled the experience fondly.
What Draws Graham to Birmingham
When asked about his favorite part of living in Birmingham, Graham said, “Birmingham is a big small town.” He appreciates the city’s mix of contemporary amenities like Costco and Whole Foods, the vibrant food scene with numerous chef-owned restaurants, and the fantastic local venues that host a variety of events. From minor league sports to concerts, Graham has enjoyed the rich cultural offerings of the city.
A Commitment to the Future
Stacey Graham’s leadership at New York Life reflects the company’s commitment not only to its employees but also to the community at large. With the planned expansions and ongoing investment in talent, New York Life is poised to play a significant role in Birmingham’s economic landscape for years to come.
