Schaumburg, Ill.– Zurich North America has appointed Kristen Bessette as Chief Data Officer, a pivotal role in advancing the company’s data and AI-driven initiatives to optimize performance across its core insurance functions. Bessette began her role on January 6 and reports to Barry Perkins, Head of Operations for Zurich North America. She is based on the East Coast.

"Kristen’s deep technical expertise and leadership experience align perfectly with our vision to seamlessly integrate AI into the tools our teams use every day,” said Perkins. “Her work will empower our employees to harness advanced technology, enhancing their capabilities and delivering even greater value to our customers.”

Zurich has been leveraging AI tools since 2015, applying generative AI across multiple insurance functions. These innovations support underwriters, claims teams, and customers through the development of various AI models.

Bessette brings extensive expertise in data, analytics, capital modeling, and reserving, which she has applied in executive management roles for leading multinational commercial insurers. In her most recent roles, she spearheaded a multiyear data strategy focused on improving customer and partner interactions. She has received industry recognition, including being named a Woman to Watch by Business Insurance in 2015 and an Executive to Watch by Risk & Insurance in 2022.

Bessette previously 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, a specialty insurer offering property, casualty, and crop products.

She is a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society and a member of the American Academy of Actuaries. Bessette earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Bates College. Additionally, she has served on the Board of Directors for the Spencer Educational Foundation, where she held roles as Treasurer and chair of the Grants Committee.