Data is the new currency for insurers, and Zurich North America has appointed a new leader to manage its flow.

Kristen Bessette has joined the company as chief data officer, effective January 6, tasked with enhancing the insurer’s data and AI initiatives.

Reporting to Barry Perkins, head of operations for Zurich North America, Bessette is based on the East Coast. This move affirms Zurich’s ongoing commitment to integrating advanced technology into its core business functions.  

Perkins said Bessette’s technical expertise and leadership experience align with Zurich’s vision for seamless AI integration into the tools its teams use regularly.

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“Her work will empower our employees to harness advanced technology, enhancing their capabilities and delivering even greater value to our customers,” said Perkins.

Bessette brings experience in data, analytics, capital modeling, and reserving, gained through executive management positions at multinational commercial insurers. In her previous roles, she led a multiyear data strategy focused on improving customer and partner interactions. Her industry recognition includes being named a Woman to Watch by Business Insurance in 2015 and an Executive to Watch by Risk & Insurance in 2022.  

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Prior to joining Zurich, Bessette held multiple senior positions at Liberty Mutual Insurance in Boston, culminating in her role as senior vice president and chief actuary for Commercial Insurance. She also served as chief actuary, data, and analytics officer at QBE North America.

Bessette is a fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society and a member of the American Academy of Actuaries. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Bates College. Bessette has also served on the board of directors for the Spencer Educational Foundation, holding positions as treasurer and chair of the grants committee.  

Founded in Switzerland in 1872 and expanded to North America in 1912, Zurich has been actively implementing AI tools since 2015, applying generative AI across various insurance functions. These applications support underwriters, claims teams, and customers through the development of AI models.  

Given Bessette’s background and Zurich’s focus on data and AI, what future developments do you anticipate in the insurance sector? Share your thoughts in the comments section.