Courtney Murphree
Courtney Murphree is the Transportation Practice Group Co-Leader at Brown & Riding Insurance Services in St. Louis, Missouri, where she has spent over a decade advancing her career from an entry-level position to a leadership role. With a deep expertise in commercial auto and logistics insurance, Courtney has built strong relationships with carriers and retail partners while providing strategic solutions for complex transportation risks. Her experience spans in-house contract-style insurance, brokerage work in Chicago, and a focus on primary and excess auto coverage, giving her a comprehensive perspective on the transportation insurance market.
A passionate leader and mentor, Courtney is dedicated to developing her team and fostering collaboration across the organization. She manages carrier relationships, drives business development, and ensures her colleagues are informed of her team’s initiatives to promote cross-selling across lines of business. Her leadership philosophy centers on curiosity, commitment, and continuous learning, which she applies to every placement and client interaction, particularly during challenging market conditions.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Courtney is active in the broader insurance community and committed to charitable initiatives. She serves on the Easterseals Midwest Advisory Board and the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) Heartland Chapter, helping to support education, health, and community programs. Recognized in 2020 by Insurance Business of America as one of the industry’s Rising Stars, Courtney continues to combine industry expertise with mentorship and community engagement to drive meaningful impact in her field.
• University of Mississippi - B.A.
• Insurance Business of America Rising Star (2020)
• Easterseals Midwest
• IICF Charitable Insurance Board (Heartland chapter)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the journey that has brought me to where I am today. After earning my degree in Political Science, I discovered my true calling in Insurance Services. I began my career in Chicago, working in-house through a brokerage, and eventually joined the Leadership Team—a role I truly love. In 2020, I was honored to receive the Rising Star Award from Insurance Business of America, which was a proud milestone in my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that it’s possible to build a successful career in a field you love while also making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This perspective has guided me to pursue work that I’m passionate about and that positively impacts those around me.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: stay the course and never give up. Believe in your abilities, remain persistent through challenges, and know that your dedication and resilience will open doors to success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is growth—both personally and within the industry. Having been in my role for a year, I’m excited to continue expanding my skills, taking on new challenges, and contributing at higher levels as I advance in my career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are helping others and being part of a collaborative, impactful team. I truly enjoy contributing as a member of the Leadership Team, and in my free time, I’ve recently joined For The Girls, a golf group in St. Louis, which allows me to connect with others and pursue my personal passions.