The Next is Now Award honors leaders shaped through Solutions 21’s Next Leader Now program who embody what it means to step up today. Over his 18-year career with InterWest, Matt has built a reputation for developing talent, fostering independent thinking, and leading by example.
Reflecting on his journey, Matt shares, “I’ve always believed leading by example is the best way to make an impression on folks. Modeling the behavior I expect from others has been central to how I guide my team.”
Through his dedication to people and the profession, Matt Bauer exemplifies the spirit of Next is Now, building a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and excellence in the insurance industry.
Read the full article here: Matthew Bauer, InterWest Insurance Services - Next is Now Award
The Next is Now Award was created to recognize leaders who are not waiting their turn. Each year, Solutions 21 celebrates a select group of individuals who have completed the Next Leader Now program and are already putting their development into action. These honorees demonstrate that leadership is not a future destination but a daily practice that shapes organizations, industries, and communities in real time.
With more than 2,000 participants across five continents, the Next Leader Now program has become a proving ground for rising leaders in diverse fields. Participants leave with the tools, confidence, and clarity needed to step into greater responsibility. The Next is Now Award shines a spotlight on those who have taken that growth and translated it into measurable results, from guiding teams through complex challenges to launching initiatives that strengthen their communities.
The award is more than recognition. It is a reminder that the next generation of leadership is already here, making decisions, driving innovation, and setting the standard for what comes next. By honoring these leaders, Solutions 21 underscores its belief that succession is not about waiting in line but about preparing to lead with purpose when the moment arrives.
