(US and Canada) Leading multi-line insurer Zurich North America has appointed Kristen Bessette as its Chief Data Officer where she will lead the company’s data and AI-focused initiatives to enhance performance in key insurance functions. Bessette reports to Head of Operations Barry Perkins.

“Kristen’s expertise and leadership are key to advancing our efforts to integrate AI into the tools our teams use daily,” said Perkins. “Her work will help empower employees to leverage advanced technologies, enhancing their capabilities and improving outcomes for customers.”

Bessette brings a strong background in data, analytics, capital modeling, and reserving, having held executive roles at major multinational commercial insurers. In her most recent positions, she led multiyear data strategies designed to improve experiences for customers and partners. She has been recognized for her contributions to the industry, including being named a Woman to Watch by Business Insurance in 2015 and an Executive to Watch by Risk & Insurance in 2022.

Her career includes senior leadership roles at Liberty Mutual Insurance, where she served as Senior Vice President and Chief Actuary for Commercial Insurance. She also held the position of Chief Actuary, Data, and Analytics Officer at QBE North America, a company specializing in property, casualty, and crop insurance products.

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