Lexington's innovation boot camp lead David Kennedy to new career challenge

While insurance is in the blood of David M. Kennedy, his route to the industry was slightly circuitous.

Mr. Kennedy, now based in Boston and product development manager at Lexington Insurance Co., attended law school after spending a year working at an insurance brokerage after getting his undergraduate degree in 1999.

After getting his law degree in 2003, Mr. Kennedy spent eight years as a commercial litigator and insurance coverage attorney, but eventually felt the pull of the insurance industry, where his father and brother enjoyed successful careers.

Mr. Kennedy started as claims analyst in Lexington's professional liability group in 2012, but changed directions after he participated in its “innovation boot camp,” in which teams of employees compete to develop new, unique products.

His performance led Lexington management to offer him his current role.

“My experience in the innovation boot camp was unequivocally a career changer for me,” Mr. Kennedy said.

Now, he develops and implements the insurer's product innovation strategy and new product concepts.

“I enjoy the ability to work with such a diverse team from across Lexington and (parent American International Group Inc.), including underwriters, product line managers and legal,” he said. “We're able to brainstorm, develop and ultimately bring new concepts to market.”

Currently, he is researching how Lexington can bring products to market to help companies address emerging risks as diverse as unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, to cryptocurrencies.

“Product development is interesting and varied every day,” he said. “In my role I touch every line of business, be it property, casualty, health care or financial lines. It's a great opportunity to get a broad perspective of the industry.”