About Us

Our Executive Team

Vocational Specialist - Certified

Ascent Risk Management’s purpose is to improve the lives of those we touch…our employees, our clients, and our community. We have been recognized as a Best Places to Work for ten consecutive years because of our culture. This is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, focused, and self-motivated job developer to join the Ascent Team and make a difference! 

Vocational Specialist - Generalist

Ascent Risk Management’s purpose is to improve the lives of those we touch…our employees, our clients, and our community. We have been recognized as a Best Places to Work for ten consecutive years because of our culture. This is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, focused, and self-motivated job developer to join the Ascent Team and make a difference! 

National Return to Work Sales Manager

We are currently seeking a self-motivated National Return to Work Sales Manager to increase and retain overall revenue in the areas of our Modified Duty Off-Site (MDOS) service and workers’ compensation Case Management. 

Junior Safety Director

Come be a part of one of the fastest growing and most well-respected risk management companies! We are currently seeking an experienced safety/loss control specialist with a passion for identifying and providing solutions to reduce workplace injuries for our clients. This person is responsible for the development and implementation of safety and loss prevention initiatives.

Safety Manager

Come be a part of one of the fastest growing and most well-respected risk management companies! We are currently seeking a safety consultant to conduct inspections, audits and investigations creating safe workplaces for our clients. This job will be based in Cincinnati, OH.

Nurse Triage

Facilitate caller’s access to appropriate level of care by assessing needs, offering clinical option, referral to health care providers, services and community resources. Promotes wellness and informed decisions by providing health information, home care advice and prevention concepts.  Interprets physician’s instructions to patients; Works closely with physicians, medical assistants and schedulers.

Business Development Manager- Louisville, KY

We are currently seeking a self-motivated Business Development Manager to cold call prospects, set appointments, and close business in a fast sales cycle. The primary responsibility of this position is to bring in new business around safety services such as training, staffing, and consulting. The successful candidate is a passionate, positive, energetic producer who thrives in a hunting/closing sales environment.

Site Safety Manager (Columbus, OH)

We are currently seeking an experienced site safety manager for a large construction project in the Columbus, Ohio. More project details will become available as the interviewing process begins. 

 

Candidate must be within Columbus, OH area, or willing to relocate for the duration of the job. Compensation will depend on candidates experience, but will range from $35-45/hr paid weekly. No per diem is available for this job.

Top workplaces

Career Opportunities

Our Culture

Community Involvement

Responsibilities: 

Responsibilities: 

Our Core Values

improving lives
BBBS

 

Following our mission of improving lives; giving back to the community is in our DNA.  Although we support several charities, our primary focus is Big Brother Big Sisters of America.  Over 20% of our employees are currently mentoring as BIGS. We incorporate many fundraising event opportunities throughout the year that support our culture of having fun while we give back. 

BPTW

A word from Ascent CEO, Brent Messmer about our culture....

Our culture defines us; our company character and values start at the top and filters their way through the organization at every level. 

There is what we refer to as the "Ascent Attitude"; defined by how we treat each other, the high standards to which we hold ourselves both personally and professionally, and our absolute passion for what we do. It's how we are viewed by those inside and outside the organization. 

We recruit and retain consistent with our core values to ensure employees provide positive energy inside of Ascent, which allows us to maintain our best places to work culture. 

Our culture allows employees to feel valued and empowered to make a difference. 

Brent Messmer

Brent Messmer, President/CEO

Brent spent six years at the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation as a claims adjuster and advanced to the Supervisor of Investigations.  He founded Ascent in 2000 and continues to lead the company with a clear vision and strategy.  His people first philosophy sets the tone for our culture.

Brent graduated from Thomas More College and serves on TMC’s Board of Trustees. He has been recognized for the Professional Achievement Award from Thomas More College Alumni Association, Forty Under 40 award from the Business Courier and a Larry Albice Entrepreneurship Award from Hamilton County Development. Brent is a former board member of Big Brother Big Sister of Cincinnati and a BIG brother for nine years. 

Fun facts: Brent enjoys traveling, playing golf, and listening to big hair bands. His favorite travel treats are Doritos and Hot Tamales.  He loves to hang out with his four kids and is an avid reader of business books. 

team

 

Do you want a job that's more than just a paycheck?

If you are anything like us, you're looking for a job that inspires. One that engages your mind and gives you a chance to grow; where building relationships is just as important as hitting goals. You've found the right spot!

Ascent Risk Management believes in working hard and having fun while we do it. Come explore the exciting opportunities we have available. We offer the kind of jobs and careers we think you’ll be excited about. But don't just take our word for it! 

To learn more about the various parts of Ascent's organization, click the links to the left or email info@ascentrmg.com.

Responsibilities:

Job Seeking Skills Training

  • Teach Job Seeking Skills Training (JSST) such as application completion, interviewing skills, networking skills, resume and cover letter development, how to look for employment and where to look for employment, how to follow-up with employers, address question regarding disability, needed accommodations and any other skill that are necessary to obtain employment.
  • Meet with the participant to complete required list of job prep functions as indicated in OOD VR Provider Manual guidelines.
  • The resume, sample application and job search materials should be exceptional and meet Matrix and OOD standard.
  • Perform follow-up with Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and with participant to ensure service requirements are met and participant is satisfied with service provision.

Sales

  • Generate prospective client leads weekly and schedule appointments accordingly.
  • Achieve monthly sales revenue goals as created by Matrix.
  • Understand and support company sales process to develop long term business relationships.
  • Attend training activities and trade shows on behalf of company to present information regarding company services.
  • Maintain superior working relationships within all areas of our organization.
  • Address prospective client issues by providing solutions for their return to work program needs.

Basic Function: 

Assist clients in developing an effective safety program to identify and prevent hazards in the workplace. Maintain quality relationships with clients while administering Matrix’s top of the line Safety and Risk. 

Job Description:

  • Conduct Construction site safety audits identifying improper procedures, checking equipment, tools, etc. for hazards. Check site for hazardous conditions and recommend corrective actions.
  • Check policies, procedures, programs, and standards to ensure that the work place audited is a safe workplace.
  • Conduct worker evaluation insuring all standards are met in regards to safety.
  • Conduct accident investigations to determine root cause and recommendations for effective hazard controls to put in place.
  • Conducts construction safety and standard reporting procedure training for project managers, foreman and supervisors, and on-site employees.
  • Review and assist in pre-qualifying contractors to insure required safety standards on site.
  • Ensure worker safety in the workplace.
  • Implement various Safety and Health programs for construction and general industry.

*Must Have OSHA 500 Certification*

Responsibilities include:

  • Manage cases toward successful return to work outcomes while maintaining relevant protocol
  • Cultivate excellent relationships with all clients and prospects
  • Assess the conditions of the patient, following protocols and initiating medical attention
  • Contribute toward program/department expansions
  • Personal ongoing development
  • Effective internal and external communication Triage patient calls to assess situation, give advice as needed. Prioritizes calls as it relates to scheduling appointments with physicians.

Responsibilities include:

  • Generate prospective client leads on a monthly basis and schedule appointments accordingly.
  • Maintain updated database, organize files on all accounts, create spreadsheets, imaging, etc.
  • Understand and support company sales process to develop long term business relationships.
  • Collect and report competitive information to management.
  • Attend training activities and trade shows on behalf of company to present information regarding company services.
  • Superior working relationships within all areas of our organization. 

Responsibilities:

  • Educate project staff and trade partners on EH&S programs, policies and procedures and provide training on safe work practices.
  • Review subcontractor safety programs for completeness and compliance with policies, regulation, and owner contractual requirements.
  • Promote safe work practices and safe working conditions in accordance with all Federal, State, and Local regulations, and Owner/contractual requirements.
  • Coordinate pre-construction meetings with Project Safety Manager.
  • Conduct effective worker orientation program for every new employee and administer and record their participation.
  • Gather pre-task plans and Job Hazard Analyses for all project contractors based on contractual requirements.
  • Conduct safety meetings and issue minutes of meetings as directed by the Project Safety Manager.
  • Maintain a log of each subcontractor’s toolbox safety meetings held with their employees.
  • Provide safety reports to Project Safety Manager as required.
  • Conduct safety audits and recommend corrective action per the site policy and work with Project Safety Manager to issue reports of any violations or unsafe practices to subcontractors for immediate resolution.
  • Investigate incidents and direct the elimination of hazardous conditions.Make at least a weekly formal safety tour and submit copy to responsible party for action.
  • Evaluate the safety of the project daily.

Why we don't wear ties...

pat

"I have been with Matrix  going on nine years of my very long working life and never in my past job opportunities have I felt the kindness, compassion and appreciation of what I do for my clients anywhere but at Matrix. Thank you for the planter,  recognition and kindness you show to me." -Pay Byers, Nurse Case Manager

john

“I have worked for Ascent for over four years now and I truly enjoy working for a company that cares about their employees. I have been able to grow professionally and personally. Ascent is extremely active in the community and provides many opportunities for their employees to do so as well. When I come to work in the morning, I look forward to the positive atmosphere. The family oriented environment encourages me to strive for excellence. When the owner of the company comes around in the morning to greet all of the employees, you know you are in the right place. I would recommend Ascent to anyone seeking employment.”

-John Page, Self Insured Account Executive

Here is the story of why we don’t wear ties.

Although never much of a corporate guy, Brent Messmer found himself wearing a suit and tie every day to his government job at the Bureau of Workers’ Comp. While managing the Fraud Division there in 1999, he was overwhelmed by employers’ frustration with the abuse in the system.

“Something different had to be done,” Brent said. “The system was bogged down, and I knew that I could do more to impact employers in the private sector.”

With only three weeks before Christmas and two small children, Messmer took the plunge in 2000 by opening 'Matrix Investigations' which specialized in workers’ comp abuse. At the request of clients, the company quickly expanded to offering workers' compensation administration services, gaining a reputation for aggressive claims management with a personal touch. Our first client remains a loyal client today.

Throughout the years, we've introduced additional ways to help our client's by expanding services and becoming Ascent Risk Management group. Ascent offers national Safety Services, Case Management, Modified Duty Offsite, Unemployment Cost Control, and Leave of Absence, and FMLA Administration. Across all lines, Ascent has never wavered from a one-point-of-management model which results in our clients feeling like an extension of their team.

From day one, Ascent was built on a few basic philosophies in regard to our team; hire people with the ‘Ascent Attitude’ and put them in the right positions, then get out of the way. Oh, and one more thing– NO TIES.

Ascent is repeatedly voted a ‘best place to work’ by offering employees an environment where they are encouraged to have fun while they work. This culture is maintained in many ways such as charity work on company time, free monthly massages, happy hours, and creative activities. According to Brent, “happy employees result in happy clients.”

When you walk into our offices today, you can feel the difference. Maybe it’s the glass walls, casual attire, the fact that people are smiling and laughing, or the rock and roll music playing throughout the open office that make the difference.  Or maybe it's the feeling that the company really cares. One client said,

“Ascent has something special—you can tell that employees are fired up about what they are doing and those are the type of people I want in my corner.”

THEN & NOW

Job Search Program

  • Attend all weekly job search appointments with participant.
  • Provide at least 4-6 job leads per week using internet or whatever means necessary to provide appropriate and viable job leads. All job leads should fall within the participants abilities and functional levels.
  • Provide Job development services per Ohio OOD VR Provide Manual guidelines.
  • Provide follow up via e-mail or phone call to VRC to ensure that counselor is update and well informed about participants progress.
  • Assure that the participant is compliant with the program and report to the VRC any significant issues.
  • Comply with the standards set forth by Matrix Vocational Solutions
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Retention

  • Establish and increase client loyalty/retention through excellent service
  • Regular visits & communication with assigned clients to ensure Matrix services are exceeding expectations
  • Address client issues and work with all areas within Matrix for complete resolution
  • Educate clients on workers’ compensation issues and rates
  • Review and advise clients on cost saving programs & participation (BWC programs)
  • Utilize expertise to promote additional Matrix service lines & program strategies to clients
  • Use expertise to create customized service plans to meet specific client requirements

Purpose

  • Improving Lives

“We are grateful for the support of our Ascent family for providing our three greatest resources – volunteer Big Brothers and Sisters, financial support, and a variety of staff, creative and professional resources needed to fulfill our mission.  Ascent understands the importance of prevention programs and leads the corporate community by investing in our future workforce by investing in youth mentoring.  With 25% of their employees serving as Big Brothers and Big Sisters, including the top leadership team, Ascent creates a phenomenal corporate culture focused on community need.”

– Kathy List, President & CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cincinnati 

Dave Kiley

Dave Kiley, Executive Vice President

Dave brings more than 25 years of risk management experience to Ascent.  He joined our Executive Team in 2007 after starting his career with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and progressing to senior management positions within the Bureau and later at two National Risk Management Companies.

Dave oversees our Return-to-Work Service Division and remains active with numerous Employer Educational Associations.

Fun Facts: Dave is number eight of sixteen children in his family.  The ultimate 'middle child'. He enjoyed a successful soccer career at The University of Cincinnati and both of his sons currently play soccer at The Ohio State University.

Career Counseling and Evaluation 

  • Administer and score vocational tests 
  • Perform Career exploration and testing services according to guidelines provide in OOD VR Provider Manual.
  • Interpret and explain testing and exploration results to participant and VRC and provide service recommendation related to result of counseling or evaluation activities.
  • Coordinate testing and exploration activities that will allow participants to gain an understanding of identified potential vocational goal options.

Case Documentation

  • Score test in accordance with testing manual guidelines.
  • Complete legible well written reports on each case in accordance with requirements specified by OOD in VR Provider Manual.
  • Enter billings and outcomes information into Matrix systems as specified by Matrix Policy and Guidelines.
  • Follow all documentation guidelines in compliance with CARF.

Job Requirements

  • Positive attitude and team player mentality
  • 3-plus years of workers’ compensation client service experience
  • Experience and in-depth knowledge of BWC rating & discount programs
  • Ability to interact & present to decision makers
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills

Responsibilities: 

  • Conduct site safety audits identifying improper procedures, checking equipment, tools, etc. for hazards and recommend correction actions  
  • Conduct work evaluation insuring all standards are met in regards to safety
  • Conduct accident investigations to determine root cause and recommendations for effective hazard controls to put in place
  • Implement construction safety and standard reporting procedure training for project managers, foreman and supervisors, and on-site employees
  • Review and assist in pre-qualifying contractors to insure required safety standards onsite
  • Create various Safety and Health programs for construction and general industry

Preferred Skills:

  • 3+ years of Occupational Health and Safety experience
  • Degree in Health and Safety
  • Construction Health and Safety Technician
  • Strong familiarity with OSHA and OSHA regulatory requirements

Job Requirements

  • Experienced in both Telephonic Case Management and Nurse Triage
  • Active registered nurse (R.N. License and possess the ability to be licensed as a registered nurse in multiple states without restrictions)
  • At least 3 years of clinical nursing experience
  • Must be credentialed with one of the following licenses: CRC, CDMS, CRRN, CVE, COHN, CCM  
  • Must be an Ohio BWC Certified Provider
  • Individual malpractice insurance 
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation and willing to travel
  • Positive attitude and team player mentality
  • Cultivate relationships with clients and prospects
  • Contribute toward program and department expansions
  • Personal ongoing development
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills    

Job Requirements

  • 2 + years of safety background preferrewd
  • OSHA 10 hour or 30 hour is a plus
  • Excited about a hunting/prospecting environment
  • Proven success with short sales cycles
  • Opportunistic mind-set and positive outlook
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Skilled in the art of negotiation and persuasion 
  • Able to work independently

Job Requirements

  • 5+ years experience in Construction safety
  • Strong electrical/mechanical knowledge
  • CHST or CSP preferred 

Qualifications

The following qualifications are the minimum requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the job.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in the Human Services or Health Care Field.
  • Thorough knowledge of the Rehabilitation field, trends and methods.
  • Must have thorough knowledge of disability.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation and willing to travel.
  • Must have excellent communication skill and problems solving abilities.

What's in it for you?

  • Competitive salary
  • Personal and Professional Development Training
  • Best Places to Work culture
  • Monthly massages and activities
  • Competitive Benefits package

Core Values

  • Play well with others
  • Do what you say and say what you do 
  • Be passionate
  • Act like you own it
  • Do the right thing, always
  • Pay it forward
Pamela

 "I love working for Ascent because the management culture here promotes the aspect of being given a job to do and left alone to do it. I love the flexibility I have to balance my work life and home life. I am proud to be part of a team who possess the same morals & integrity as I do.”

-Pamela Mundy, Self Insured Claims Assistant

Jessica Esterkamp

Jessica Esterkamp, Vice President of Corporate Development

Jessica began her career in the staffing industry before joining Ascent in 2004 as a Business Development Manager. Over the past 15 years she has driven growth and fulfills her current role on the Executive Team as VP of Corporate Development; overseeing Client Relations, Sales & Marketing and Safety Services. Jessica also provides leadership to our woman owned staffing company, SAFESTAFF.

Jessica received her bachelor’s degree in Business from University of Cincinnati. She was recently recognized as a Business Courier's Forty under 40 recipient, a 2013 honoree of the Greater Cincinnati Cystic Fibrosis Association’s Cincinnati’s Finest program and is a graduate of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber's Women Excel Program. She currently serves as a board member of the Greater Cincinnati Big Brothers Big Sisters organization and is a Big Sister. 

Fun Facts: Jessica can Double Dutch while spouting the words to any 90's rap song. She spends her free time discovering new hiking trails, skiing, cooking, or enjoying live music with her family.  

Job Seeking Skills Training

  • Teach Job Seeking Skills Training (JSST) such as application completion, interviewing skills, networking skills, resume and cover letter development, how to look for employment and where to look for employment, how to follow-up with employers, address question regarding disability, needed accommodations and any other skill that are necessary to obtain employment.
  • Meet with the participant to complete required list of job prep functions as indicated in OOD VR Provider Manual guidelines.
  • The resume, sample application and job search materials should be exceptional and meet Matrix and OOD standard.
  • Perform follow-up with Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and with participant to ensure service requirements are met and participant is satisfied with service provision.

What's in it for you?

  • Make a difference
  • Enjoy coming to work every day
  • Best Places to Work culture
  • Monthly massages and activities
  • Competitive Benefits package
  • Generous holiday schedule

Core Values

  • Act like you own it
  • Be passionate
  • Do what you say, say what you do
  • Play well with others
  • Pay it forward

Job Requirements

  • Two or more years of safety related industry experience preferably in construction
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Time management skills and detail oriented
  • Able to work independently and multi-task

Core Values

  • Act like you own it
  • Be passionate
  • Do what you say, say what you do
  • Play well with others
  • Pay it forward

Core Values

  • Act like you own it
  • Be passionate
  • Do what you say, say what you do
  • Do the right thing…always
  • Play well with others
  • Pay it forward

Brand Promises

  • Make every employee feel valued and appreciated
  • Make every client feel like our only client
  • Make a positive impact on our community
Britt

“I am very grateful for the opportunity and encouragement Ascent has given me to grow both personally and professionally. Our culture is infectious, I immediately felt pride and passion the second I walked through the door. Respect, care and positivity radiates from the top and flows throughout the rest of the company.”

-Brittany Schroeder, Risk Management Consultant

Jim Esposito

Jim Esposito, Chief Financial Officer

Jim joined the Ascent team in 2010. He began his career in 1990 at Deloitte where he held roles of increasing responsibility including Audit Manager.  In 1997, he began his consulting practice in which he has performed project management, as well as interim or advisory Controller and CFO duties for a variety of companies, including three years as the Corporate Controller for General Cable Corporation, a $5 billion publicly traded company.

Jim graduated from Xavier University and maintains his designation as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He is also president of the board of directors for the Athletes United Foundation.

Fun Facts: 'Espo' has seen Bruce Springsteen in concert over 50 times and he's not done.  He's passionate about basketball and coaching his daughter's team. Being a true financial guy, he just refuses to give up the tie. 

Job Search Program

  • Attend all weekly job search appointments with participant.
  • Provide at least 4-6 job leads per week using internet or whatever means necessary to provide appropriate and viable job leads. All job leads should fall within the participants abilities and functional levels.
  • Provide Job development services per Ohio OOD VR Provide Manual guidelines.
  • Provide follow up via e-mail or phone call to VRC to ensure that counselor is update and well informed about participants progress.
  • Assure that the participant is compliant with the program and report to the VRC any significant issues.
  • Comply with the standards set forth by Matrix Vocational Solutions
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

What's in it for you?

  • Competitive salary
  • Personal and Professional Development Training
  • Best Places to Work culture
  • Monthly massages and activities
  • Competitive Benefits package
Stephanie Armbruster

Stephanie Armbruster, Vice President of Claims Operations

Stephanie got her start in the industry in 1996 and began her employment with Ascent in 2004. She was promoted to Director of Claims in early 2012 before being named Vice President of Claims Operations in 2014.

Stephanie attended the University of Cincinnati and holds multi-state certifications to adjust workers’ compensation claims. 

Fun Facts: Stephanie has her own dirt bike and loves to ride on the weekends. She and her husband are very active with their teenage son and five pets, yet she somehow manages to maintain a spotless house. 

 

Case Documentation

  • Score test in accordance with testing manual guidelines.
  • Complete legible well written reports on each case in accordance with requirements specified by OOD in VR Provider Manual.
  • Enter billings and outcomes information into Matrix systems as specified by Matrix Policy and Guidelines.
  • Follow all documentation guidelines in compliance with CARF.

Core Values

  • Act like you own it
  • Be passionate
  • Do what you say, say what you do
  • Play well with others
  • Pay it forward
SC

“I've been working here for eight years now and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.  The culture and atmosphere are unlike any I have been in previously. We support and encourage each other as a team and treat each other like family.  I have grown tremendously both professionally and personally and I am looking forward to what Matrix has yet to offer!”

-Sarah Cook, Self Insured Claims Assistant

Don't be fooled by our glamour shots, the picture below is the unfiltered version of us. 

We believe in the concept of work hard, play hard and can often be found laughing and having fun along with the rest of the Ascent team. 

team silly

Qualifications

The following qualifications are the minimum requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the job.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in the Human Services or Health Care Field.
  • Certification or Licensure such as CRC, PC, LSW, LISW.
  • Thorough knowledge of the Rehabilitation field, trends and methods.
  • Must have thorough knowledge of disability.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation and willing to travel.
  • Must have excellent communication skill and problems solving abilities.
LD

“I have worked at Ascent for almost 13 years. I have always enjoyed my job as I have grown professionally working in multiple departments and roles. What makes Matrix so special to me are the people I have met along the way and building friendships! Matrix is a 2nd family to me. You always hear that 'you should love what you do for a living', and I definitely do!” 

-Lynne Daugherty, State Fund Account Executive

Voted Best Places to Work for the last ten years.

What's in it for you?

  • Make a difference
  • Enjoy coming to work every day
  • Best Places to Work culture
  • Monthly massages and activities
  • Competitive Benefits package
  • Generous holiday schedule
RS

“Ascent has been my employer for over ten years now and I can honestly say that coming here one of the best moves I made.  It has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally as they promote growth within the company.  The culture is very customer focused and friendly.  The company has a very relaxed atmosphere that allows employees to work comfortably but diligently on getting all aspects of their jobs completed.  It’s nice to be a part of a company where the owners’ doors are always open or are just a phone call away.”  

-Renee Scheidweiler, Case Manager

Core Values

  • Act like you own it
  • Be passionate
  • Do what you say, say what you do
  • Do the right thing…always
  • Play well with others
  • Pay it forward