Deborah Lichtinger

Deborah attributes her success to clear communication, authenticity, consistency, and strong relationship-building. She credits her ability to speak directly with brokers, manage expectations, and follow through as key factors in maintaining exceptionally high client retention throughout her career. She also acknowledges the influence of strong organizational cultures that valued people and families. Deborah’s primary areas of expertise include insurance underwriting, client relationship management, broker relations, reinsurance, excess insurance, and leadership within large national insurance organizations. Her strength lies in communication, long-term client retention, and navigating complex insurance relationships with clarity and trust. Deborah brings an impressive 42 years of experience in the insurance industry. Her career began at New England Re and evolved through progressively senior roles at major organizations including AIG and Liberty Mutual, where she built a reputation for consistency, credibility, and results. One of Deborah’s most notable professional achievements is her exceptional client retention record, with very few lost renewals over decades in the industry. She also considers her ability to successfully balance a demanding career while raising children as a single parent a significant personal and professional accomplishment. A particularly meaningful moment came during her retirement celebration, when a CEO publicly acknowledged her impact with a heartfelt gesture of appreciation. Deborah is now retired from full-time insurance leadership, but remains connected to the industry through relationships, networking, and mentorship. Her current focus includes community leadership, staying engaged with professional peers, and enjoying the flexibility to pursue personal interests while reflecting on a career defined by influence and impact.

Deborah’s career was shaped by leaders and executives who demonstrated trust, respect, and human-centered leadership. While she did not name specific mentors, she spoke meaningfully about leaders who acknowledged her contributions and fostered environments where people felt valued.

Deborah advises young women entering insurance—particularly underwriting—to stand strong, recognize their influence, and never allow others to diminish their capabilities. She emphasizes confidence, professionalism, and the importance of owning one’s expertise in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Deborah identifies one of the biggest challenges in insurance as earning credibility and respect early, especially for women. However, she sees opportunity in relationship-driven leadership, where communication, trust, and consistency can set professionals apart and lead to long-term success.

Deborah values integrity, independence, resilience, and balance. Professionally, she believes in earning respect through results rather than recognition. Personally, she values family, self-reliance, and living authentically, without the need for external validation. Outside of work, Deborah enjoys travel, including recent trips to Italy and the Bahamas, as well as spending time with family and pets. She has a wide range of personal interests, from caring for animals including a long-lived ball python named Henry to staying active in her community and maintaining meaningful social connections.