Profile
As general manager of the California Schools Voluntary Employees Benefits Association (VEBA), Laura Josh blends policy innovation, operational discipline, and a deep commitment to people. Her trajectory is the product of early intention and bold, well-judged pivots.
Since eighth grade, Josh has been focused on leading a business, a clarity of purpose that led her to The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. In her current role, she navigates economic shifts, regulatory changes, and evolving needs in education and healthcare, resulting in instability underpinning every challenge.
“I approach them with confidence, clarity, and the conviction that solutions exist, often found by thinking beyond convention and setting a purposeful direction forward.”
Rather than becoming consumed by uncertainty, she focuses relentlessly on what is within her control. She prepares her team to respond effectively, prioritizing strategies she can influence today. This calm, disciplined orientation has been critical in steering VEBA through rapid change while protecting the educators and public employees it serves.
One of Josh’s most significant career achievements underscores her ability to turn vision into structural change. In 2020, she helped secure passage of state legislation that enabled a first-of-its-kind direct contracting pilot built on innovative, risk-based payment models. When the pilot launched in 2024, it began delivering meaningful value almost immediately.
She says, “The deep partnerships with our pilot partners are yielding powerful insights that will return incredible results both financially and in improving the lives of those it serves.”
At the heart of her leadership is an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and progress. By pairing intellectual curiosity with strategic rigor, she leads the development of forward-looking strategies that differentiate VEBA and drive sustainable impact.
“I find deep fulfillment in coaching individuals through their most challenging moments and supporting them as they overcome barriers,” explains Josh. “Throughout my career, the greatest satisfaction has come from the meaningful difference I am able to make for those I serve.”
As a woman leading in a historically male-dominated industry, Josh is acutely aware of how outdated assumptions still shape perceptions of leadership – whether it’s her husband being reflexively congratulated at awards events or the subtle pressures that encourage women to shrink themselves. She is determined to counter that narrative.
Recognized as an Elite Woman 2026 by IBA, she uses her visibility to show that women do not have to choose between a high-impact career and being a present, engaged parent.
“You can lead with excellence, drive meaningful results, and still be a deeply present parent. In many ways, that balance is not a limitation – it’s a strength that fuels purpose, resilience, and impact,” she says.
What further distinguishes Josh is her focus on systemic change. Beyond serving VEBA’s members, she has testified on Capitol Hill, advanced meaningful legislation, and mobilized purchaser coalitions to drive reforms that lift the entire ecosystem.
Ultimately, Josh seeks to leave a legacy that proves that meaningful change is possible when leaders are brave enough to challenge the status quo and committed enough to bring others with them.
655 E 4500 S #210, Salt Lake City, UT 84107
801 901 7800
rebecca@ark-ins.com
linkedin.com/in/laura-josh-5739255
vebaonline.com
Laura Josh
General Manager
California Schools Voluntary Employees Benefits Association (VEBA)
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
Profile
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
Read on
Special Report
Home
Bio
Milestones
2010–present
2017–present
2023–present
2024–present
Present
Founder and CEO at Ark Insurance Solutions, a health insurance brokerage that helps individuals, families, and businesses secure quality coverage
2010–present
Member at CMS Agent & Broker Advisory Group, Healthcare.gov
Broker at Utah Dept. of Health Ryan White Program
2017–present
Board Member at Rare Disease Advisory Council (RDAC)
2023–present
Partner at Max Method, an All-In-One Platform (CRM) designed for health and life insurance agencies
2024–present
Serves as a frequent industry speaker and thought leader on property insurance trends
Present
Milestones
Milestones
Sept 2021
Feb 2022
Apr 2022
Jul 2022
Aug
2022
Suncorp Bank introduces Solar Home Bonus offer for customers who are choosing renewable energy for their homes
Sept 2021
Month-on-month market share growth commences
Feb 2022
Suncorp Bank wins the Canstar award for most outstanding value in investment loans
Apr 2022
Suncorp Bank wins Money Magazine’s Bank of the Year and Business Bank of the Year awards for the fifth year in a row
Jul 2022
Suncorp Bank’s turnaround times are the lowest they have ever been. The lender becomes Australia’s first certified carbon neutral bank for both its operation and transaction services
Aug 2022
Milestones
As a founding member of WOW! (Women. Opportunity. Winning.), an employee resource group created for all women of Ryan Specialty, Phillips Topping has long championed for women in the industry.
“It’s very important to set an example and to not only inspire but mentor other females,” she adds.
In addition to her sharp marketing eye, the key to Phillips Topping’s success lies in her high-energy approach and positive attitude.
“As the leader of a team, it’s important to motivate and encourage your team members. People work very hard and do their best and it’s important to recognize these efforts. For my career overall, my attitude has been one of curiosity. The more you can learn, the better you’ll understand the business, and then the deeper your knowledge will become, making you a better team member.”
Chief underwriting officer of executive risk at Chubb
President of financial insurance solutions at Kemper
Chief underwriting officer at Axis Capital
CEO of global Insurance at Endurance
CEO of global Insurance at Sompo International
A significant part of his focus today is staying ahead of regulatory change while maintaining a seamless client experience. He tracks updates from regulators and lenders closely and works with his teams to adjust systems as needed.
“My approach to my role and my career has always been rooted in passion, focus, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he says. “I’ve never been driven solely by profit or business metrics. I believe in hiring great talent, trusting them, and pushing boundaries because innovation doesn’t come from playing it safe.”
His experience isn’t limited to Canada. Ibrahim has worked in the US and UAE, which shaped his global perspective and comfort with adapting to different markets. He thrives on risk, viewing setbacks as stepping stones to progress.
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made,” he adds.
That outlook continues to guide his work and reflects his broader goal of helping move the industry forward. Through his brokerage, lending company, and legal services, Ibrahim is focused on creating long-term value for his clients, his teams, and others working in the field.