Whitney Ross is an accomplished legal and insurance executive with over 18 years of experience in navigating the complexities of professional and executive risk management. As the Executive Vice President and Chief Claims Officer at HUB International, Whitney leads North America’s claims and legal operations for Professional and Executive Risk (ProEx). Her expertise spans Directors and Officers (D&O) liability, Employment Practices Liability (EPL), Fiduciary, Cyber, and Crime insurance coverages. A dynamic leader and trusted advisor, Whitney’s dedication to fostering innovation and excellence has earned her recognition as one of the most influential professionals in her field.
Throughout her career, Whitney has built a reputation for skillfully resolving complex claims, negotiating favorable outcomes, and collaborating with key stakeholders to ensure seamless risk management solutions. Her role at HUB International involves direct oversight of claims advocates and attorneys, offering strategic guidance to clients across diverse industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. Whitney’s thought leadership is reflected in her ability to anticipate emerging risks, identify solutions, and provide clarity in high-stakes situations.
Before her current role, Whitney held senior leadership positions at Willis Towers Watson, where she was recognized with the prestigious CEO Circle Award for her outstanding contributions. As the Regional Leader for the Midwest and Canadian segments of the Claims & Legal Group, she directed cross-functional teams, presented on critical topics like ransomware and securities litigation, and consistently delivered innovative strategies to address her clients’ needs.
Whitney’s journey in the insurance sector began at Starr Companies, where she managed financial and professional lines claims. Her experience included attending mediations, negotiating settlements, and working directly with stakeholders to assess liability and manage exposure. Her early legal career at BatesCarey LLP and Peters & Nye LLP further honed her expertise in litigation, mediation, and arbitration, representing international insurance carriers and handling claims involving EPL, D&O, and Fiduciary insurance policies.
A highly sought-after thought leader, Whitney regularly authors industry publications and speaks at conferences nationwide. Her written work covers timely topics such as securities litigation, excessive fee fiduciary liability, biometric exposures, and insolvency risks for directors and officers. She has presented on panels including “From AI to the SEC: The Future of D&O Litigation and Regulatory Exposures” and “Intersecting Insurance: How D&O and Cyber Policies May Cover Public Company Risks.” Her insights and strategic perspective have made her a valuable resource for boards, clients, and industry leaders.
In addition to her professional achievements, Whitney is committed to empowering others and driving innovation. Her membership in Chief, a private network dedicated to advancing women in leadership roles, reflects her dedication to fostering equity and mentorship within the industry. Through her work and advocacy, Whitney exemplifies the principles of collaboration, integrity, and forward-thinking leadership.
Whitney’s expertise extends to international markets, where she works with clients from Canada, Bermuda, and England. Her global perspective enables her to address cross-border challenges and develop tailored solutions for multinational organizations. By staying attuned to regulatory changes and industry shifts, Whitney ensures that her clients are equipped to navigate both current and emerging risks.
On the educational front, Whitney holds a Juris Doctor degree with honors from Chicago-Kent College of Law at the Illinois Institute of Technology. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Philosophy from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame. Her academic background underscores her analytical and problem-solving capabilities, which have been pivotal in her professional success.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Whitney enjoys life on a horse farm with her family, embracing the balance of a fulfilling career and a vibrant personal life. This connection to her roots is a testament to her grounded character and her ability to maintain perspective in both her work and personal pursuits.
Whitney is driven by a desire to bring clarity to complexity, using her knowledge and skills to support clients, colleagues, and industry partners. Whether she is presenting to a board, mentoring emerging leaders, or developing innovative claims strategies, her focus remains on delivering value and making a meaningful impact.
Character:
Whitney Ross embodies integrity, resilience, and professionalism, earning the trust of clients, colleagues, and industry leaders alike. Her empathetic leadership style fosters collaboration, ensuring teams and stakeholders are aligned in achieving success.
Knowledge:
With nearly two decades of experience in professional and executive risk management, Whitney possesses an unmatched depth of expertise in complex insurance and legal challenges. Her insight into emerging trends and industry dynamics positions her as a trusted advisor for clients across various industries.
Strategic:
Whitney is a visionary leader who anticipates industry shifts and crafts innovative solutions to address evolving risks. Her ability to align business objectives with tailored strategies ensures optimal outcomes for clients and organizations.
Communication:
Whitney excels at translating complex legal and insurance concepts into clear, actionable insights. Her ability to articulate challenges and opportunities fosters understanding and alignment among diverse audiences, including boards, clients, and industry professionals.
