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2022 Break Out Awards NORTHEAST SOUTH MIDWEST WEST

LAUREN GORTE Senior vice president, chief operating officer, accident & health, North America

Chubb Ltd.

Chicago

As the daughter of a risk manager, Lauren Gorte knows a bit about insurance, even if she didn’t envision a career in the industry. After an internship at the Federal Reserve, the economics major decided against a government job, then considered consulting before her father suggested insurance underwriting. Ms. Gorte joined Chubb, then Ace Ltd., in 2009 and has since held various leadership roles in cyber liability and now accident and health.

 

What’s a lasting effect of the pandemic on the way you work?

The benefit of being able to connect over video more frequently and easily with brokers, clients and colleagues. I don’t think you’ll ever be able to replace the benefits of in-person interaction, but the reality is I can have meetings with so many more people internally and externally via a Zoom or Webex.

 

What’s your advice on navigating the current insurance market?

Understanding the issues, whether you’re a broker understanding what your clients are dealing with or having that discussion with your underwriter to assess what’s top of mind for them. 

 

What’s a problem that needs fixing in your sector?

I come from an insurance family, and, even then, I still struggled to find my path into the industry. We have a real need to continue to build a diverse talent pool for our industry. That starts with attracting talent, making them aware of the career paths and opportunities.

 

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A professional athlete. I always played multiple sports. I subsequently tore both of my ACLs and had reconstructive surgery, so I had to pivot to something with less contact. Insurance fits the bill in a lot of ways.

 

Favorite song?

“Love It If We Made It” by The 1975.

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