Her Story
About Danielle
Danielle Harper, CRIS, is an Account Executive at Ascent Works, a Gilbert, Arizona-based insurance and risk management firm dedicated to transforming lives through caring engagement and empowering businesses and people. With approximately 15 years of experience in the commercial insurance industry, Danielle has built a career centered on client advocacy, relationship management, and helping organizations navigate complex risk challenges. She began her career in the insurance field shortly after completing her education and progressed from entry-level roles to leadership positions, gaining experience across both smaller agencies and larger insurance organizations. Throughout her career, Danielle has developed a strong specialization in construction insurance and risk management, dedicating about a decade to serving clients within the construction industry. In her role at Ascent Works, she partners with middle-market and large organizations across the country, managing complex accounts involving multiple entities and providing strategic guidance throughout every stage of the business lifecycle. Her expertise includes contract reviews, claims advocacy, risk transfer strategies, insurance program analysis, and helping clients prepare for growth, acquisitions, and operational changes. Danielle approaches insurance as more than a policy transaction—she focuses on understanding each client’s business, goals, and challenges to deliver thoughtful, practical solutions. Danielle attributes her success to genuine advocacy for her clients and her commitment to helping them succeed through every stage of their journey. She believes in showing up with authenticity, consistency, discipline, and gratitude while maintaining the flexibility to adapt when circumstances change. Known for her relationship-driven approach, Danielle takes pride in building trusted partnerships, supporting clients during critical moments, and creating meaningful value through service. Her dedication to client success, leadership, and continuous improvement reflects Ascent Works’ mission of leading with care and empowering people and businesses.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Danielle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being a genuine advocate for my clients and earning their trust through every stage of their business journey. I believe my role extends beyond placing insurance.I strive to understand each client’s goals, anticipate challenges, and provide strategic guidance that helps them make informed decisions with confidence.
By becoming a true partner in their success, I have built lasting relationships founded on trust, transparency, and results. Seeing my clients grow, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals is the most rewarding measure of my own success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” It is a simple statement, but one that has shaped the way I lead and continue to grow. It reminds me to approach every challenge with curiosity rather than certainty, to ask thoughtful questions, and to seek out perspectives that challenge my own.
I believe the most successful leaders are lifelong learners. Recognizing that there is always more to discover has made me more adaptable, a better decision-maker, and a stronger advocate for my clients and team. It has taught me that confidence is not about having all the answers—it is about having the humility to keep learning, the courage to ask for help, and the willingness to grow from every experience.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my professional and personal life are consistency, authenticity, and discipline. I believe true growth comes from showing up every day—not just when motivation is high, but especially after the excitement has faded. I strive to give my best effort, lead with integrity, and remain adaptable when challenges or changing circumstances require a new approach.
Gratitude is equally important to me. It keeps me grounded, provides perspective, and reminds me to appreciate the people, opportunities, and experiences that have shaped both my career and my life. These values influence how I lead, how I build relationships, and how I approach every opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.