Her Story
About Durga
Durga Shankar is an accomplished technology executive with nearly 26 years of experience driving digital transformation, software engineering, and enterprise technology delivery within the commercial insurance and financial services industries. Currently serving as Vice President of Software Engineering – Underwriting Services at Arch Capital Group, she leads end-to-end technology delivery, stakeholder engagement, IT development practices, and financial oversight across her organization. Known for aligning strategic vision with disciplined execution, Durga has built a reputation for delivering innovative, scalable technology solutions that improve operational efficiency and generate measurable business outcomes.
Prior to joining Arch Capital Group, Durga spent more than 17 years at AIG, where she held progressively senior leadership roles and spearheaded transformative technology initiatives across North America. Among her most notable achievements was leading the rollout of one of the industry's first enterprise-scale Generative AI capabilities for the software development lifecycle (SDLC), helping modernize development practices and accelerate innovation. Throughout her career, she has successfully led global engineering organizations, developed long-term digital transformation strategies, implemented Agile and Lean methodologies, and leveraged emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and natural language processing to enhance underwriting operations and business performance.
Beyond her executive responsibilities, Durga is a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and STEM education. She previously led the Global Women in Technology Southeast Chapter at AIG, where she championed leadership development and career advancement for women in technology. She also mentors high school girls pursuing STEM careers and volunteers with the Metrolina Eye Foundation, contributing her technical expertise to support community initiatives. Recognized with the prestigious Women of the Year Award from AIG's CEO and multiple internal leadership honors, Durga continues to inspire the next generation of technology professionals through her commitment to innovation, mentorship, and servant leadership.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Durga
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to nearly 26 years of technology leadership, specializing in end-to-end technology, stakeholder engagement, and strategic financial management. One of my proudest achievements has been leading AIG's first industry-wide Generative AI capability implementation, while continuing to drive innovation and business transformation.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that hard work always pays off. I’ve seen that proven throughout my career, and being honored with AIG’s Women of the Year Award by the company’s CEO was a meaningful recognition of the dedication and commitment I’ve brought to my work.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to believe in yourself and never give up. Stay committed, work hard, and trust that your perseverance and dedication will open doors and create opportunities for success.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating a new leadership role. Having been in my current position for just one year, it has been an opportunity to learn, adapt, build strong relationships, and drive meaningful impact within the organization.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are empowering others, giving back to the community, and making a positive impact. Through my work with the Global Women in Technology SEC Chapter, I mentor young women in STEM and encourage high school students to pursue careers in technology. Outside of work, I enjoy gardening, singing, and listening to music, which help me stay balanced and inspired.
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