2018 Break Out Awards, Midwest: Ryan Strouth
Posted On: Jun. 4, 2018 12:00 AM CST
RYAN STROUTH
Middle Markets Business Center head
Travelers Cos. Inc.
St. Paul, Minnesota
Age: 37
Ryan Strouth began working at Travelers Insurance in 2003, immediately after graduating from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, where he double-majored in management and marketing. He began at Travelers as an account executive and by 2010 was leading the creation of the company’s Emerging Medical Technology practice. Last year, he assumed his current position overseeing a large middle-market underwriting organization.
Emerging risks in your specialty
Technology has empowered our customers with easier access to more buying options. The insurance industry needs to transform the way it does business to meet the evolving needs of customers. This is a risk for the status quo and an opportunity for those who transform.
Advice for someone starting in the business
Be a student of your trade. Insurance is complex, and expertise adds value. Committing yourself to deep learning of the business will pay off throughout your career.
Best-kept secret about insurance
Insurance is essential for economic innovation. With innovation comes risk, and innovators need our help with risk so they can focus on new ideas.
Something people don’t know about you
Many know by now, but I am fascinated by “smart” gadgets. My drone and robot lawnmower are a couple of the favorites.
Dream vacation
My wife Angie and I are working on a trip to Switzerland. We are trying to find a rustic chalet in the Alps and ski as much as our legs will allow. It’ll be my dream vacation, if we make it happen.
Favorite meal
Angie makes the most amazing lasagna. Somehow it is better than any meal I’ve had anywhere.