Onward. Upward. Always.

Inspiring and propelling people-first leadership.

The Mission

To collectively reach new heights through committed leadership, genuine connections, community engagement and innovative ideas that disrupt the status quo.

Visionary. Entrepreneur. Philanthropist.

A career marked by people-first thought leadership.

Over 25 years ago, Bryan Brenner built First Person to advise organizations in the selection of employee benefits – a key component in the attraction and retention of top talent in today’s competitive marketplace. But, more importantly, First Person was built to model and teach its clients the idea that people – not profits – should come first. Through his unique ability to see patterns and illuminate the connection between seemingly disparate dots, success mounted as he and the First Person team churned out innovative ideas and industry-leading practices. In May 2021, First Person was acquired by NFP, a global insurance consultancy that serves as a clearing house for best practices. Bryan now serves as its Managing Director where he continues to activate his network for the mutual benefit of clients and partners alike.

Giving lift to leading minds.

Bryan loves connecting with people, inspiring change, and seeing fresh ideas take flight, particularly in the Indianapolis community. He serves on several boards including the Butler University Board of Trustees, the Indy Chamber, the Oaks Academy and Progress House – an Aspire company. Bryan is also a forum leader for Young Presidents’ Organization and a member of NFP’s advisory board.

Dawg for life.

Bryan graduated cum laude from Butler University with degrees in Public & Corporate Communications and Journalism. He has also earned the designation of Registered Employee Benefits Consultant (REBC) from American College, Bryn Mawr, PA. Bryan lives in Carmel, IN with his wife Elaine, where they have raised their four children and family pup. Together, they enjoy theater, music, and traveling, particularly to the Pacific Northwest.

Active board memberships

ICYMI

Having the Vision and The Drive To See It Through with Bryan Brenner

Bryan Brenner joins Craig Anderson, President & Founder of Clearpath Coaching and Consulting to share his journey of being an unlikely hero of his own success story and using his experience to invest in others in the corporate world. Listen in to hear his story of finding the power of vision and drive and how to balance that with moments of relaxation and recalibration.

EXPERTISE

Executive Mentorship

Leading can be lonely. Oftentimes, it feels like you’re supposed to have all the answers, make all the tough decisions, and carry everyone else’s burdens on your shoulders. But, part of being a good leader is knowing when you need fresh eyes, a sounding board, and advice you can trust.

Executive Mentorship
Entrepreneur Mentorship
Community Leader Mentorship

People Strategy

People strategy is business strategy, as the success of an organization begins and ends with the quality, alignment and satisfaction of its people. Developing a people strategy, including compensation, work-life integration, benefits, performance management, professional development and recognition is key for the modern workforce.

Total Rewards
Aligning People with Business Strategy
Creating High Performing Cultures

Not-for-Profit Strategy

Though a business mindset is helpful in the not-for-profit world, there are important differences in how you engage your audience, secure funding for your programs and services, and get the word out to the community about the great work you’re doing.

Fundraising
Board Development
Donor Engagement

When Partners Value Visionary Precision.

"Bryan has connected me to the resources and people I need to be successful, helped me think about my employees in a holistic way, and, in doing so, helped me to become a better leader and version of myself. He's challenged me to think outside of the status quo box and shown me that the best form of knowledge can be learned through authentic relationships."

Jennifer BartenbachCFO & COO, CICF

"Bryan's willingness to engage at the ground level, combined with his deep experience and expertise has unlocked our ability as an organization to approach a very complex transition and turn it into something much simpler and iterative with the focus of employee experience at its core."

Matt LightDeputy Mayor, Noblesville

"Bryan has the unique ability to combine practical experience with an instinct for human behavior, which is deeply rooted in diverse industry experience. He really sees the big picture while outlining the step-by-step plan for the journey. His contributions and knowledge are unmatched, and he has continuously proven he knows my business, what we need as an organization and the path to our success."

Shari Missman MillerHR Business Partner, Butler University

Bryan possesses the unique gifts of understanding people’s objectives, forecasting long-range vision, and developing creative solutions for how to pull it together. His commitment to not just come up with the idea, but to ensure it gets executed and managed with the standards of excellence pushes the industry forward and allows us to continually build for the future.

Mark MinnerSenior Vice President, NFP

Bryan is a master of people, communication and organizational design. His strategies are tailored to individuals, their unique circumstances, and what they truly need to be successful in their environment. He invests in building extraordinary relationships and approaches each challenge with a lens for problem solving. He has helped me think about things in various, new ways, and taught me how to have the greatest impact within my organization.

Mary Beth OakesCEO, Business Furniture

"There are very few people that I trust and rely upon like Bryan. He’s been an incredible sounding board for me in working through challenges both in my career and personal life. He takes a listen-first approach before providing advice and coaching which shows both his curiosity and desire to help people."

Ian NicoliniVP of Development, Pure Development

"Bryan took the time to understand my company’s (and my own) needs thoroughly, and and helped us make the most of our benefits spend. I never once felt that I was being sold a service, but instead forging a partnership that would benefit all parties. Every time I have gone to him for assistance, he has delivered."

Angela HudginsVP of HR & Talent Management, Co-Alliance Cooperative

"Bryan and his firm helped us perform a needs assessment and climate survey around our Total Rewards strategies to enhance our effectiveness with recruiting and retention. Especially when embarking on a challenging project, being able to rely on a battle-tested and thoughtful business partner is invaluable. When you work with Bryan, you feel like you have a true ally in your corner."

Matt Tyner Jr.Partner, Elevate Ventures

"Bryan is a trusted advisor, confidante and friend who has added such value to my professional and personal life. When I’m facing a particularly challenging issue with my team, Bryan consistently provides insight that cuts right to the root of the issue and provides a path to move forward with positive and productive energy."

Jonathan D. PurvisVP of University Advancement, Butler University

Welcome, friends!

Let’s make a connection.

If you’ve made it here, I have a suspicion we’re of the same ilk. Which is why you know as well as I that we still have a lot of work to do. What are your goals? How can I support your ascent to amazing outcomes?

Let’s land that plane!