Born on August 19, 1970, of Venezuelan and Italian descent, Rafael Eduardo Cedeno-Camacho has made a name for himself in the insurance and finance sectors. With over 25 years of experience, he blends his technical expertise as a public accountant with astute business acumen, creating a distinguished portfolio of successful ventures.
Rafael's academic journey reflects his dedication to growth and continuous learning. He earned a public accountant degree from Santa Maria University, then expanded his expertise by acquiring a Global MBA from the University of Miami, a Marketing degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and completing two Executive Programs at Singularity University in Silicon Valley. He began his professional career at KPMG, quickly building a versatile skill set that laid the foundation for his future successes.
Today, Rafael is the Chairman of the Board at One Alliance Insurance Group. This insurance conglomerate, founded in 2013 in Puerto Rico, specializes in health, property, and casualty insurance with operations across the Dominican Republic and the US. The group's key companies include:
One Alliance Insurance Company (OAIC): This Puerto Rican company has seen significant growth since being acquired in 2019 by Rafael and a group of investors. Under his leadership, OAIC has realized a 37.1% revenue CAGR from 2019 to 2023.
Singular Insurance Agency: An agency authorized as a general property and casualty insurance agent.
One Alliance also operates globally in travel assistance and offers financing solutions through Axeso Finance and Redi Redi, a company providing microcredits in the Dominican Republic. He remains actively involved in all operations, working closely with executives and maintaining a rigorous agenda.
Bold investments and strategic decisions mark Rafael Eduardo Cedeno-Camacho's journey in insurance. In 2013, he joined with prominent investors and financial experts to launch his first insurance company. This collaboration marked the beginning of a new era of market influence, leading to a solid presence in Latin America and the US One Alliance now holds underwriting licenses in nine US states: Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Delaware, Georgia, Texas, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. He is always seeking new regions and countries to expand his reach.
Rafael is adept at using technology to meet changing market dynamics. One Alliance Travel Assist is an InsureTech platform where customers can directly quote, compare, and issue insurance. One Alliance Seguros in the Dominican Republic features a producer portal, virtual office, and One Service chatbot. Automated KPIs ensure daily oversight of operations, allowing him to integrate AI into his insurance business.
Rafael Eduardo Cedeno-Camacho's strategic vision remains the guiding force for One Alliance's future. His proactive approach to corporate social responsibility includes meeting with industry leaders to address preparedness for natural disasters. One of his best investments has been building a high-performing team that transforms claims departments into profit centers.
His extensive experience and knowledge are well-recognized across the industry. His guest articles in Demotech magazine resonate with professionals, and he regularly appears on international media programs to discuss company products, brand expansion, and headquarters openings. His interests include industry trends, AI, cryptocurrencies, and real estate investments.
He considers his family his greatest success and balances business with quality time at home. He collects vintage cars and enjoys sports like karate, golf, and paddle tennis, which require focus and skill, much like his approach to business.
Rafael Eduardo Cedeno-Camacho has consistently participated in philanthropic initiatives throughout his career. He regularly donates to St. Agnes Catholic Church in Key Biscayne and contributes to organizations like the Pediatric Hospital Foundation, the CAP Foundation, and the American Cancer Society. With over 400 employees, a network of over 3,000 insurance agents, and a portfolio of over 100 products, he is a visionary investor whose strategic leadership has made One Alliance Group a crucial player in Latin America and the US insurance sectors.
Published on:10/17/2024
Golf has long been regarded as an ideal environment for fostering business relationships. The leisurely pace, ample time for conversation, and relaxed atmosphere create the perfect setting for professionals to connect on a personal and business level. Whether closing deals, discussing partnerships or simply building rapport, golf has become a go-to networking tool for many in the corporate world. Leveraging the power of golf can significantly enhance your professional network and open doors to new business opportunities.
One of the greatest advantages of networking on the golf course is the time spent with potential clients or partners. A typical round of golf can last several hours, providing an extended window for meaningful interaction. Unlike brief meetings or rushed lunches, golf allows for ongoing conversation, where topics can shift seamlessly from personal interests to business matters.
Golf also provides a setting that encourages open dialogue. The relaxed nature of the game allows individuals to be themselves, leading to more authentic interactions. As players share stories, work through challenges on the course, and celebrate small victories together, relationships are naturally strengthened. This setting fosters trust and mutual understanding, which are the foundations of any strong business relationship.
Golf's unique combination of relaxation and competition makes it an excellent environment for business discussions. During a round of golf, the setting encourages collaboration and teamwork, as players often help each other with advice or shooting strategies. This spirit of cooperation can easily translate into conversations about business, where challenges are discussed and solutions are explored.
Because golf takes place outside the confines of the office, the formality of a business setting is replaced by a more casual tone. This allows participants to discuss business matters more freely without the pressure of a structured meeting agenda. Business challenges, opportunities for collaboration, and ideas for growth can be addressed naturally and spontaneously, helping foster deeper business connections.
For years, the golf course has been where business deals are made. The relaxed atmosphere allows for a comfortable discussion of business matters, with less pressure than traditional boardroom negotiations. Whether it's sealing a partnership, finalizing a contract, or agreeing to a new venture, the informal environment of the golf course allows business professionals to move from casual conversation to concrete agreements with ease.
The progression of a golf game allows for business talks to happen gradually, building rapport throughout the day. When a deal is discussed, trust and mutual respect have been established, creating the perfect conditions for finalizing agreements. Many professionals find that a handshake at the 18th hole often leads to long-term business partnerships and successful collaborations.
Golf courses are frequented by top executives and high-level decision-makers, making them prime locations for networking with influential figures in various industries. Many executives use golf to unwind and connect with colleagues or potential partners, providing a rare opportunity to engage with leaders who may need help to reach in a traditional business setting.
By participating in golf tournaments, charity events, or corporate outings, professionals can gain access to key players in their industry. These events create a level playing field where conversations can flow naturally and introductions are easily made. The informal golf setting makes approaching and interacting with decision-makers easier, offering a valuable opportunity to expand your business network.
How you conduct yourself on the golf course often reflects your character in business. Golf is a sport that requires patience, discipline, and respect for the rules, qualities that are equally important in the business world. Handling challenges like a missed shot or a frustrating round can demonstrate your resilience, attitude, and professionalism to potential clients or partners.
Golf also emphasizes fairness and honesty. Players must follow the rules, keep their scores, and demonstrate good sportsmanship. These traits are highly valued in business relationships, where trust and integrity are key. Conducting yourself professionally and respectfully on the course can leave a lasting positive impression on your fellow players, reinforcing your reputation as a trustworthy and reliable business partner.
Golf is more than a recreational activity—it's a powerful networking tool that can elevate your business relationships and open doors to new opportunities. From building lasting connections to closing deals in a relaxed setting, the benefits of networking through golf are undeniable. By taking advantage of the golf course's unique environment, professionals can engage in meaningful conversations, foster collaboration, and showcase their integrity, all while enjoying a game they love. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting, the links can be a valuable part of your strategy for business success.