Zurich and Dillard University unite to drive diversity and reveal opportunities in insurance

Zurich North America recently collaborated with Dillard University, a respected Historically Black College and University (HBCU), to host an event aimed at raising awareness about the numerous career opportunities within the insurance industry and attracting diverse talent to the sector.

The event, titled "Breaking Barriers: Diversifying the Insurance Industry for a Sustainable Future," brought together Zurich leaders to discuss the wealth of opportunities in the insurance industry and emphasize the critical role diversity plays in shaping its future.

Participants included representatives from Dillard University and Zurich North America, along with members of the Zurich African Ancestry Alliance (ZAAA), one of Zurich's 10 Employee Resource Groups. Leaders from these organizations shared their unique journeys into the world of insurance.

Zurich North America CEO Kristof Terryn discussed his career trajectory and highlighted the dynamic nature of the insurance industry. He noted, "When I think about my 20-year career with Zurich, I've worked in finance, operations, and had global jobs. This industry has allowed me to engage with various sectors, work in different roles, and make a meaningful impact."

Dr. Rochelle Ford, the eighth president of Dillard University, shared her journey from insurance to academia. She emphasized how her foundation in the insurance industry helped her transition into academia, saying, "What I learned in the insurance industry was how to be part of a team and what a great corporate culture was like."

Erica Jones, Middle Market Regional Operations Manager at Zurich and member of ZAAA, provided insight into her career path in the insurance industry. "I had no idea about the industry until I needed a job, but I loved it because I was able to speak with people and help them understand why insurance is important," said Jones. "I kind of fell into it, but now I love it."

The event served as a platform for Dillard students to learn about the insurance sector and consider the vibrant career possibilities within the industry. With engaging discussions, the event successfully shed light on the insurance industry's potential and demonstrated Zurich's commitment to diversity, community engagement, and nurturing the next generation of industry leaders. Krishna Lynch, AVP of Zurich Resilience Solutions and Head of ZAAA, reflected on her experience, stating, "At Zurich North America, I often say Zurich has allowed me to actually work in my purpose and my passion."

When asked about building a career within Zurich, Gerald Chiddick, Midwest Regional Executive SVP, reflected on his journey, stating, "So, you asked a great question when I think about coming out of school. I was the first person in my family to graduate from college and had no real corporate exposure. It was frightening, dealing with the unknown, but also welcoming." Chiddick emphasized the importance of real work, training, and collaboration in building a successful career within the insurance industry, encouraging aspiring professionals to seek excellence in their own careers.

The event also highlighted Zurich's Apprenticeship Program, designed to provide an understanding of the insurance sector and launch careers at Zurich.

In a demonstration of its commitment to education and fostering future leaders, Zurich made a donation to Dillard's general scholarship fund. This donation underscores Zurich's dedication to diversity and providing career opportunities within the insurance industry.

The event wasn't just about highlighting opportunities within the insurance industry; it also demonstrated Zurich's commitment to community involvement. Zurich, celebrating its 20th anniversary as the official title sponsor of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans PGA TOUR golf tournament, has a long-standing relationship with New Orleans. Since becoming the title sponsor in 2005, the tournament has generated over $645 million in economic activity for the New Orleans community and raised more than $30 million for charitable organizations, supporting 200,000 children in need annually.

Members of Zurich North America Executive Committee along with other Zurich leaders who were in town for the 20th anniversary of Zurich's title sponsor of the Zurich Classic, took the opportunity to engage directly with Dillard students during a networking session.

Terryn concluded, "We're committed to doing the right thing. It's not just important for employees, it's important for customers and partners because when you build long-term relationships, they want to know you're going to be there tomorrow. This is what defines the DNA of a company for the long term."

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