Since arriving in the United States 32 years ago, Thomas Bello has dreamed of a career that would make his family proud. This native of the Dominican Republic has seen his wish fulfilled, especially with his appointment this month to become Managing Partner of the Greater Detroit GO.

            Bello was a Partner in the Manhattan General Office, where he started with New York Life in 2004 after working 19 years at another life insurer. “I should have started my career at New York Life,” he says. “At this company, they told me-in writing-how you can get ahead, and then they promoted me based on my own merits.”

            As a long-time resident of the New York City area, Bello became deeply involved with community groups, especially those addressing the needs of the Hispanic population. He looks forward to resuming these rewarding activities in a new city.

            Bello succeeds Rich Simonetti, who became the Agency Vice President responsible for recruiting and retention.   “I’m ready to continue his legacy and build on it,” says Bello. “He put a very good system in place.

            Bello has been married to his wife Xiomara for 30 years, and they have two grown children, Jean and Tom Jr., and three grandchildren.