Orieta Kristo, 38
Founder & CEO
Horizon Insurance Inc., Worcester
Residence: Worcester
Birthplace: Tirana, Albania
Colleges: Worcester State University & American College of Financial Services
Having immigrated to the U.S. at 14 with her family from Albania, Kristo finding business success would be inspiring enough. Kristo has that part down, leaving her job as a lead sales representative at Liberty Mutual Insurance in 2014 to start Horizon Insurance, which has tallied $4 million in sales and a client list of 3,000 households across Massachusetts, as one of few female owners in the male-dominated insurance industry. Kristo plans to move into a new office on Park Avenue before the end of the summer and was recognized this year by the U.S. Small Business Administration as one of its success stories. The mother of two finds a broader purpose by giving back to Worcester’s Albanian community – one of the city’s largest immigrant groups – as a donor and volunteer, including as a main sponsor of Worcester’s Albanian Festival and Toys for Tots. The Albanian community makes up roughly 60% of Horizon Insurance’s clientele. Kristo supports her local Greek Orthodox Church, the Worcester childhood cancer nonprofit Why Me & Sherry’s House, and Abby’s House, a Worcester shelter and advocacy group for women and children. – Profile written by Grant Welker
What movie character are you most like? Katniss Everdeen from “Hunger Games” has strength, courage and independence, fights for what is right, and at the same time is very compassionate.
What’s the hidden gem of Central Mass.? The Cascades in Worcester have miles and miles of hiking trails.
What would you say to an intern entering the insurance field? Don’t be afraid of the word “no,” be consistent, and ask many questions. Be yourself and strive to help people. Don’t just see numbers.
