Her Story
About Kelly
Kelly Puryear, AINS, AU, is a seasoned insurance professional and Senior Underwriter specializing in excess and surplus lines, general liability, and complex risk assessment. Based in Glen Allen, Virginia, she has built a career spanning more than three decades, beginning in the insurance industry in 1994. Her professional journey has included claims, recovery, environmental underwriting, and general liability underwriting, giving her a broad understanding of the insurance lifecycle and the ability to evaluate risks from multiple perspectives.
Throughout her career, Kelly has developed expertise in evaluating complex risks, interpreting policy language, managing renewals, maintaining broker and agent relationships, and developing insurance solutions for specialized exposures. Her underwriting experience includes general liability as well as habitational, hospitality, environmental, construction-related, and other specialty risks. She is also committed to developing others in the profession, providing training and mentorship to new hires and helping colleagues understand the broader business implications of underwriting decisions. Her professional credentials include the Associate in General Insurance (AINS), Associate in Commercial Underwriting (AU), and Associate in Surplus Lines Insurance (ASLI), with continued progress toward her CPCU designation.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kelly is deeply committed to animal rescue and community service. She helped establish an animal rescue organization in 2010 and has continued that commitment through her work caring for rescued animals, including donkeys, pigs, goats, dogs, and a bunny. Her dedication to continuous learning, professional development, mentorship, and compassionate service reflects the combination of expertise and purpose that has defined her career. Through more than 30 years in insurance, Kelly has demonstrated a lasting commitment to mastering her profession while making a meaningful difference both within the industry and in her personal community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kelly
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to discipline, continuous learning, patience, and professional development. I believe expertise takes time, so I focus on asking questions, developing my skills, learning from others, and seeking guidance from experienced mentors.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to never be afraid to ask questions or admit when I don’t know something. My mentors have taught me the value of learning from experienced professionals, sharing knowledge, and seeking guidance as I take on new responsibilities.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to learn. You are not expected to know everything right away. Ask questions, read, seek guidance, and be willing to learn as you go.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is that the industry remains predominantly male-driven. It requires patience, resilience, and grit, while also knowing when to speak up, stand your ground, and confidently advocate for yourself.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value discipline, compassion, responsibility, continuous learning, and patience. I believe in developing genuine expertise and giving back, both professionally and personally. Animal rescue is an important part of my life and reflects my commitment to caring for others, taking responsibility, and making a positive difference.
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