Kenya Smith, J.D.
Kenya Smith, J.D., is an accomplished Risk Management and Legal professional with extensive experience in claims mitigation, insurance strategy, and organizational risk oversight. Currently serving as Senior Manager of Claims and Risk Management at HelloFresh, she leads the company’s U.S. claims program, managing litigation response, insurance renewals, and claims operations across multiple states. With a career spanning corporate, nonprofit, and healthcare sectors, Kenya brings a strategic, solutions-oriented approach to protecting businesses while supporting the people they serve.
Beginning her career as a claims adjuster at Liberty Mutual, Kenya quickly advanced into management roles, developing a nationally implemented training program that showcased her ability to create scalable impact. She further expanded her expertise in risk management while overseeing property, auto, general liability, and workers’ compensation programs in a hospital setting, before transitioning to corporate risk leadership at HelloFresh. Alongside her professional responsibilities, she earned her Juris Doctor from UNT Dallas College of Law, gaining valuable legal expertise that informs her work in contract review, vendor onboarding, and litigation support.
Passionate about innovation and people-centered leadership, Kenya focuses on strengthening risk frameworks, mentoring her team, and leveraging emerging technologies to drive operational efficiency. Her professional philosophy centers on integrity, purposeful leadership, and pursuing work that inspires long-term impact. Kenya’s dedication to excellence and continuous growth positions her as a trusted leader in the intersection of risk management and law, guiding organizations safely through complex challenges while fostering a culture of accountability and care.
• UNT Dallas College of Law - J.D.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of continuous learning, adaptability, and building a strong foundation across claims, legal, and risk management functions. My willingness to take on diverse roles across industries—from insurance to healthcare to a global consumer brand—has strengthened my strategic perspective and broadened my understanding of complex business challenges. My legal education has also been invaluable, sharpening my analytical approach to risk and contracts. Above all, I believe in leading with integrity and purpose, and pursuing work that I am passionate about.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from a mentor who recognized my potential and encouraged me to pursue law school. That guidance profoundly shaped my path into legal and risk management work. Throughout my career in insurance, healthcare, and corporate risk management, I’ve been fortunate to learn from leaders and mentors who influenced my approach to contracts, vendor partnerships, and claims leadership. Early experiences, including my internship with Susan G. Komen and leadership exposure at Liberty Mutual, helped me build a strong foundation that continues to guide my professional growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering insurance and risk management is to seek broad exposure across functions, remain open to transitioning between industries, and invest in education that strengthens both analytical and strategic skills. Building a strong foundation early in your career and embracing leadership opportunities can significantly expand your scope and impact. Above all, if there isn’t a seat at the table for you, never be afraid to pull up a chair yourself.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in claims and risk management today is the growing complexity of organizational risk, evolving regulatory environments, and increasing litigation exposure. At the same time, I see tremendous opportunities in leveraging AI and data-driven tools to enhance claims mitigation, predictive risk analysis, and operational efficiency. These advancements allow risk management to play a more proactive and strategic role within organizations.
I also believe there is significant opportunity in fostering greater female representation at senior levels, which can bring new perspectives and leadership to the field.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, diligence, and thoughtful leadership. I believe in leading with purpose, holding myself accountable, and building strong teams and systems that protect both people and organizations. I also value growth and innovation, which is reflected in my interest in applying new technologies to advance risk management practices.
Outside of work, I am passionate about travel, the arts, and spending time with my two dogs. These pursuits provide balance and creative renewal, helping me stay energized and inspired in my professional life.
Locations
HelloFresh
Fort, TX 76179