Women to Watch: Laurel A. Ulrich

Laurel A. Ulrich

Senior Vp, Regional Executive Officer Western Region

ACE USA

Los Angeles

Age: 43

Laurel A. Ulrich began in the insurance industry in 1987 as a workers compensation claims representative at Travelers Property Casualty Corp., and then went to American International Group Inc. later in 1987. In 1990, she took a position at Johnson & Higgins, which was purchased by Marsh & McLennan Cos. Inc. during her tenure. She began working for ACE in 2001. In 2003, Ms. Ulrich became regional executive officer for the Western region as part of the insurer's coordination of its business units to represent "One ACE" to customers and distribution channels. Her leadership of ACE's Western region has helped it grow from four employees to 70.

Advice to young women: "The advice I offer young women entering the industry today is to learn as much as possible as quickly as possible. Take advantage of any education that is offered through your company and study and take the tests while you are still young and used to taking tests. The more proficient you are at the technical side of our industry, the better you will be at any job. Work long hours, take initiative, find a mentor and constantly ask questions."