Nick Blyth
Senior vice president, Holmes Murphy/Innovative Captive Strategies
Age: 39
Wife: Amber Blyth
Children: Sawyer (4), Kendall (2)
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
Serve on the Dowling Catholic Foundation board, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa board, and support Professionals For Charity (P4C), all of which share missions to serve and support the youths of Des Moines in various ways.
Support the community through Holmes Murphy's "Give. Fully." initiatives.
Earned voting shareholder status at Holmes Murphy in 2023 and led strategic growth initiatives of Innovative Captive Strategies.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
My family is my biggest passion. I was blessed when my wife, Amber, came into my life, and we are so grateful to have two young and healthy children in Sawyer and Kendall. My family keeps me grounded, brings me joy and gives my life a deeper purpose.
What are your goals in your role at work?
As a former intern at Holmes Murphy, I am inspired by the young talent we continue to attract at Holmes Murphy/ICS. It makes us unique in the industry. I want to develop future industry leaders within Holmes Murphy and witness the talent multiply across our company.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
As a new board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa, I am looking forward to helping the youths of Des Moines realize their potential and build their futures. The impact BBBS is making for our youths is inspiring, and I'm excited to help build more momentum for such a great mission.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
No surprise to any parent, having children was a game changer in my life! Witnessing my children learn new things, ask curious questions that make me curious in return and watching them grow up so fast has given me a new perspective on what is important and appreciate the daily blessings that life brings, even if they are disguised as frustrating moments.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I have been fortunate to have several mentors in my career at Holmes Murphy/ICS. When I'm at the end of my career, I hope to have made an impact on the career success of others in the same way my mentors have for me.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Be patient, but don't get complacent. Exercise some patience while putting in the work today that will get you closer to achieving your long-term goals. In a society that wants everything on demand, be willing to sacrifice some short-term gains in order to reach greater success in the long run.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
Born and raised in the Des Moines metro, I've never had a reason to leave since I began my career. I'm proud to call Des Moines my home. I would encourage Central Iowa leaders to continue to promote the quality of life and business opportunities in order to recruit and retain top talent. We've come so far in marketing Des Moines the last 20 years, but let's not take our foot off the gas. I say this often to clients and business partners outside of Des Moines – I'm lucky my job affords me the opportunities to travel the country and even the world, but I'm even more thankful to call Des Moines “home.”
What's one fun fact about you?
I survived an Amtrak train crash.
Hobbies: Golf, travel, Cyclones.
One word that describes you: Humble.
What is your favorite local restaurant? 801 Chophouse.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. "Iowa Everywhere" podcast.
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Dining out and golf.