DAVID SHLUGER
Senior multiline underwriter
Zurich North America
Boston
Age: 31
David Shluger came to the insurance industry through Zurich Insurance Group Ltd.’s Associate Training program in 2009 without knowing much about the business. Over the course of nine years, he has developed his skills, and now he develops multiline, multiyear risk transfer programs and focuses on property and cyber for Zurich North America. His customers are primarily large global organizations, and he works in tandem with them and their brokers to craft customized solutions to complex risks.
Emerging risks in your specialty
I would say cyber is the fastest-evolving threat to companies that we see. It really demands constant vigilance from those companies as well as insurance coverage that can reduce gaps and overlap across many of the different lines. I’m also seeing companies pursing alternative risk financing to try to make the best use of their balance sheet but still secure protection for the unforeseen event.
Job change over the next 10 years
I think we’ll see a convergence of risk, where customers want broad integrated coverages that are seamless and complete. And so, for me, as part of an insurance carrier, I’ll support customers on the journey toward enterprise risk management by being innovative and focusing on the customers’ needs.
Advice to someone starting in the business
Be ambitious, be curious and take personal risks in your career. And then, most importantly, seek mentors, act on their advice and thank them for it.
Best-kept secret about insurance
The insurance industry is not the sleepy industry that maybe it once was. It’s evolving very quickly, moving from antiquated to high-tech.
Something people don’t know about you
I’m an undefeated amateur boxer — but it’s a little bit tongue-in-cheek. I’m 1-0. I fight for charity, so it’s kind of funny to say I’m retired and undefeated.
The 2018 Business Insurance Break Out Awards highlight the potential future leaders of the insurance and risk management sector from across the United States.