About The Benefit Advocates

The Benefit Advocates was founded by Mary Kesel in 2001. Kesel, who has more than 25 years experience in the clinical and administrative areas of healthcare, is the company's president and chief executive officer.

Most recently, she managed the health and welfare plans for Wachovia Corporation — one of the nation's leading banking companies. Kesel also is an adjunct professor of human resources at the Babcock Graduate School of Management and a member of the board of visitors of the Calloway School of Business and Accountancy at Wake Forest University.  

"In my 25 years of working in the healthcare industry, I have seen the environment become increasingly confusing and complex," said Kesel, who holds a master's degree in social work (with specialty in health and medical services) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

"Plans and providers seem to change every year. In many cases, employees do not know who to call for help. And often, a phone call to the health plan does not completely resolve complex issues.

"Employees and retirees want a knowledgeable and compassionate advocate to help them understand their benefits and to negotiate on their behalf. The Benefit Advocates was established to provide this personal and confidential service. We are committed to serving the healthcare needs of employees so they can focus on the work they were hired to do."

Ann Richardson: Customer Service Supervisor

An industry veteran with more than 25 years of human resources and benefits experience, Richardson joined The Benefit Advocates from the HR department of a large Carolinas financial institution and also worked for a large North Carolina health plan. She currently manages the Retiree Call Center and provides advocacy services.

Linda Carter: Vice President, Client Services Manager

Carter, a more than 15-year benefits industry veteran in financial services, helped Kesel launch The Benefit Advocates and has been with the company since its founding.  She recruits and supports new clients, serves as account manager for larger clients, manages complex advocacy cases and leads the appeals team.